Its realization had never been close enough for practical considerations; it was an image, something in the clouds; and if he still hoped and longed for its materialization there were times when he feared even to regard it too closely lest it should vanish.

His first thought at this announcement of Elfrida's was of what it might signify of change, what bearing it had upon her feeling, upon her intention.

Then he thought of its immediate results, which seemed to be unfortunate.

But in the instant he had for reflection he did not consider Janet at all.
"Ah, yes! It was contemptible--but _contemptible!_ I did it partly to hurt her, and partly, I think, to gratify my vanity.

You would not have thought anything so bad of me perhaps ?" She looked up at him childishly.