Surely you understand.

I am a man sorely tempted, and dare not yield to temptation." She drew her hand away from my clasp, yet the very movement seemed to express regret.
"You speak strangely." "No, I do not; the words have been wrung from me.

I am in no way ashamed, although I realize this is neither the time nor the place.
Remember you have been under my protection ever since that night we met first on the streets; you are alone here with me now, but still under my protection.

I cannot take advantage of your helpless condition, your utter loneliness.

If I did I should never again be worthy of the name gentleman." "I regret you should say this." "No more than I do; the words have been wrung from me." "And we are to be friends no longer?
Is that your meaning ?" "You must answer that question," I replied gravely, "for it is beyond my power to decide." Her head was again uplifted, and I knew she was endeavoring to see my face through the gloom.