She did not lack decision of conduct.

She could resolve in an instant to send a drunkard to an institution or take a trip round the world; but on a matter of philosophy of life it was as difficult to get her to commit herself as if she had been upon the witness-stand.

Yet it was just in this realm that he particularly valued her opinion.
"Oh," she said at last, "I don't believe that it's possible to play safe in love.

It's a risk, but it's one of those risks you haven't much choice about taking.

Life and death are like that, too.