He meant to discover the truth for himself.

He had believed--that was the essential.

His behaviour had been superb.

The lying letter to Ezra Brunt was a mere peccadillo, even if it was that, even if it was not actually virtuous.
She walked off rapidly, trying to imitate the fine, free, calmly defiant bearing of Mr.Cannon and the policeman.
IV "Florrie gone to bed ?" she asked briskly of her mother, who was fussing about her in the parlour, pretending to be fretful, but secretly enchanted to welcome her, with a warm fire and plenteous food, back again into the house.

And Hilda, too, was enchanted at her reception.
"Florrie gone to bed?
I should just think Florrie has gone to bed.
Half-past ten and after! Eh my! This going out after tea.