She had of course reminded herself that she was to hear from Mr.
Goodwood again; but this was not to be for another year and a half, and in that time a great many things might happen.

She had indeed failed to say to herself that her American suitor might find some other girl more comfortable to woo; because, though it was certain many other girls would prove so, she had not the smallest belief that this merit would attract him.

But she reflected that she herself might know the humiliation of change, might really, for that matter, come to the end of the things that were not Caspar (even though there appeared so many of them), and find rest in those very elements of his presence which struck her now as impediments to the finer respiration.

It was conceivable that these impediments should some day prove a sort of blessing in disguise--a clear and quiet harbour enclosed by a brave granite breakwater.

But that day could only come in its order, and she couldn't wait for it with folded hands.