He felt a sadness that was more than half a joy.

He should be free; he should be honest, and being honest, he could summon that most sterling of all strength, a manly self-respect.

He had thought himself strong, but had found himself weak.

The love of money, which at first had seemed so gross, at last had conquered him.

This thought did not sting him now; it softened him, made him look with a more forgiving eye upon tempted human nature.