His good nature, his sensitive regard for the feelings of others, rendering it so impossible for him to say no, and above all his vacillating disposition, were his paramount characteristics still: in a degree they ever would be.

Easily led as ever, he was as a very reed in the hands of the crafty old woman of the world, located with him.

She had determined that he should become the husband of her daughter; and was as certain of accomplishing her end as if she had foreseen the future.
Lord Hartledon himself afterwards, in his bitter repentance, said, over and over again, that circumstances were against him; and they certainly were so, as you will find.
Lord Hartledon thought he was making headway against it now, in sending for his old friend, and resolving to be guided by his advice.
"I will take an opportunity of speaking to Maude, Carr," he resumed.

"I would rather not do it, of course; but I see there's no help for it." "Make the opportunity," said Mr.Carr, with emphasis.

"Don't delay a day; I shall expect you to write me a letter to-morrow saying you've done it." "But you won't leave to-day," said Hartledon, entreatingly, feeling an instant prevision that with the departure of Thomas Carr all his courage would ignominiously desert him.
"I must go.