He had a chance now.
The certain success of his friend's project, the fortunate completion of his own diplomatic undertaking, marriage with a beautiful and charming woman--these items would consolidate his career.

If Iris were not available, plenty of women, high-placed in society, would accept such an eligible bachelor.

But his heart was set on Iris.

She was honest, high-principled, pure in body and mind, and none prizes these essentials in a wife more than a worn-out _roue_.
He seized the first opportunity that presented itself to make Sir Arthur Deane acquainted with a decision already dreaded by the unfortunate shipowner.

Iris must either abandon her infatuation for Anstruther or bring about the ruin of her father.