He had simply been dismissed, turned out, decently enough, perhaps, considering his status, yet with a certain measure of contempt which rankled nevertheless.
The young man could not altogether reconcile this style of treatment with his preconceived conception of Miss Natalie Coolidge.

He had been too deeply impressed by her to easily relinquish his previously formed opinion of her character.

This latest action did not at all coincide with her former open friendliness.

He had not gone to her as a servant, nor had she in any way treated him as such.

What could account for so remarkable a change?
Even if she had felt his present usefulness was ended; that she had made a mistake in ever admitting him to her confidence, the dismissal could have been much more pleasantly achieved.
She could still have exhibited friendliness, and an interest in his departure.