But in any case it would be a very delicate subject to approach, and Mr.Juxon amused himself by constructing conversations in his mind which should lead up to this point without wounding poor Mrs.
Goddard's sensibilities.

He was the kindest of men; he would not for worlds have said a word which should recall to her that memorable day when she had told him her story.

And yet it would be quite impossible to broach such a scheme without going at once into all the details of the chief cause of her sorrows.

The consequence was that in the windings of his imagination the squire found himself perpetually turning in a vicious circle; but since the exercise concerned Mrs.Goddard and her welfare it was not uncongenial.

He founded all his vague hopes upon one expression she had used.