The ideal itself was an offence to society.

We have all heard of such offences and how they have been punished.
One great factor in the refining of Ann's life was her lover's long neglect; for he, in the simple belief that she must know his heart and purpose and that she would not be much benefited by his companionship, left her for those years that passed before he married her wholly ignorant of his constancy.

Ann was constant.

Had he explained himself she would have been content and taken him more or less at his own valuation, as we all take those who talk about themselves.

Having no such explanation to listen to, she watched and pondered all that he did.
Before the day came in which he made his shy and hesitating offer of marriage, she had grown to be one with him in hope and desire.