He wasn't really quite responsible for his actions.

He isn't now.

When people are--are in love, I've often noticed they're not responsible." "But why--" "I only wanted to show him what a goose he really was," murmured Sarah, hanging her head.

"He came back so pompous and superior; talking about his father's place, and being the only man in the house, and obliged to look after you all; and it was all so ridiculous, and so out of date.

I didn't mean to hurt _you_ except just for a moment, because it could not be helped," said Sarah.