She was quite the most unselfish person he had ever known.
He went over in his mind all the times when Helen had instantly given up a thing at his wish.

Amongst others, he remembered how, on that spring morning so long ago, when he had told her of his new book and of his plan, she had been wanting to tell him something, yet he had allowed her interest to remain untold, when she threw herself heart and soul into his.

He began to wonder what it could have been; and whether it would be too late to ask her now.
At last he reached the house, and felt slightly cheered to see lights and fires within.

He had almost anticipated darkness.
Mrs.Blake herself opened the door, resplendent in black satin; lavender ribbons in her lace cap.
"La, sir!" she said.

"Fancy you walking from the station! You must please to excuse Simpkins being out.