I know it would be more honourable for me to tell her now.

I'll try to do it--I will make an effort, and summon up the courage necessary--God be my helper!" "That's a dear boy!" she exclaimed, kissing him affectionately; "I know you will feel happier when it is all over; and even if she should break her engagement, you will be infinitely better off than if it was fulfilled and your secret subsequently discovered.

Come, now," she concluded, "I am going to exert my old authority, and send you to bed; tomorrow, perhaps, you may see this in a more hopeful light." Two days after this, Clarence was again in New York, amid the heat and dust of that crowded, bustling city.

Soon, after his arrival, he dressed himself, and started for the mansion of Mr.Bates, trembling as he went, for the result of the communication he was about to make.
Once on the way he paused, for the thought had occurred to him that he would write to them; then reproaching himself for his weakness and timidity, he started on again with renewed determination.
"I'll see her myself," he soliloquized.

"I'll tell little Birdie all, and know my fate from her own lips.