I'm trying to think less of myself, Rita, and more of her....

Perhaps, if I knew she were happy, I could stand--losing her....

If she could be--without me--" He checked himself, for the struggle was unnerving him; then he set his face firmly and looked straight at Rita.
"Do you believe she could forget me and be contented and tranquil--if I gave her the chance ?" "Are _you_ talking of self-sacrifice for _her_ sake ?" He drew a deep, uneven breath: "I--suppose it's--that." "You mean that you're willing to eliminate yourself and give her an opportunity to see a little of the world--a little of its order and tranquillity and quieter happiness ?--a chance to meet interesting women and attractive men of her own age--as she is certain to do through her intimacy with the Countess d'Enver ?" "Yes," he said, "that is what must be done....

I've been blind--and rottenly selfish.

I did not mean to be....