At first the notion of heroism and the conviction that he was performing a most noble and chivalrous deed sustained him; but there was a fund of common sense in his character, and this common sense suggested to him that instead of being a hero, he had been the dupe of a wily coquette.

Not at first did this idea strike him; not until long, dreary weeks had passed, and she had never sent him even one message of thanks or sympathy.

He was very angry with the idea at first, thinking it quite a false one, but gradually he awakened to the conviction that it was true.
Then his fortitude forsook him, and it was some consolation to hear from Mr.Forster that what the kind-hearted lawyer called his misrepresentations had been effectual.

People had almost forgotten that little paragraph that had one morning taken London by storm.
"I have denied it so constantly and emphatically," he said, "that my words have been believed.

As soon as you get out of here, make haste abroad, then all may be well." Even he could not help seeing how entirely the light and brightness had faded from the young face.
"I have never said anything to you," said Mr.Forster, one morning, "but I have a certain conviction, Mr, Carruthers, that there is some woman in this; you are here for a woman's sake and to screen her from blame; if so, it is useless asking you to tell the truth, I know, but make the best of it; get out of this as soon as you can." He did so.