So she fell back on her old theme.
"We must at all events, Mr.Ratcliffe, use our judgments according to our own consciences.

I can only repeat now what I said at first.

I am sorry to seem insensible to your expressions towards me, but I cannot do what you wish.

Let us maintain our old relations if you will, but do not press me further on this subject." Ratcliffe grew more and more sombre as he became aware that defeat was staring him in the face.

He was tenacious of purpose, and he had never in his life abandoned an object which he had so much at heart as this.