I knew afterward what that meant.
"It is better to speak plainly," I continued, "in a case like this--better for both.

Listen to me, and believe, Coralie, that even had I never seen Miss Thesiger, I--forgive me, but it is the truth--I should never have loved you with more than a cousin's love; my friendship, my esteem, my care, are all yours; more I can never give you." Pray God I may never see another woman as I saw her then.

She rose; with her white face and glittering eyes.

Then came to mind that line: "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned." "You throw the love I have offered you back in my face, Sir Edgar ?" "No, dear; I lay it kindly and gratefully in your hands, to make the joy and happiness of some good man's life." "You distinctly tell me that you never did--never could love me ?" "I love you as my cousin, Coralie--not in any other way." "You would never, never, under any circumstances, make me your wife ?" "Why do you pain me so, Coralie ?" "I want a plain answer--you would never marry me?
Say 'yes' or 'no.'" "No--since you force me into ungracious speech." "Thank you," she said, bitterly; "I am answered--there can be no mistake.

Sir Edgar, you speak your mind with honorable frankness.