That cause was still sharply defined before my mind.

It was the first and most sacred consideration.

I wrote a reassuring despatch to Catherine Evers, and took it myself to the little post-office opposite the hotel that very evening before dressing for dinner.

But I cannot say that I was thinking of Catherine when I proceeded to spoil three successive ties in the tying.
Yet I can only repeat that I felt absolutely "proof" against the real cause of my solicitude.

It is the most delightful feeling where a handsome woman is concerned.