He wanted her to go with him to the theatre that evening, and he complimented her on her appearance.

He stated that he admired her exceedingly, and wanted to give her pleasure.

But somehow Elizabeth had fallen into the habit ever since she left the prairies of comparing all men with George Trescott Benedict; and this man, although he dressed well, and was every bit as handsome, did not compare well.

There was a sinister, selfish glitter in his eyes that made Elizabeth think of the serpent on the plain just before she shot it.

Therefore Elizabeth declined the invitation.
It happened that there was a missionary meeting at the church that evening.