Am I right in so understanding what you have told me, as that he never referred to her, directly or indirectly, in any way?
Never even hinted, for instance, that your patron might have views as to your marriage ultimately ?" "Never." "Now, Handel, I am quite free from the flavor of sour grapes, upon my soul and honor! Not being bound to her, can you not detach yourself from her ?--I told you I should be disagreeable." I turned my head aside, for, with a rush and a sweep, like the old marsh winds coming up from the sea, a feeling like that which had subdued me on the morning when I left the forge, when the mists were solemnly rising, and when I laid my hand upon the village finger-post, smote upon my heart again.

There was silence between us for a little while.
"Yes; but my dear Handel," Herbert went on, as if we had been talking, instead of silent, "its having been so strongly rooted in the breast of a boy whom nature and circumstances made so romantic, renders it very serious.

Think of her bringing-up, and think of Miss Havisham.

Think of what she is herself (now I am repulsive and you abominate me).

This may lead to miserable things." "I know it, Herbert," said I, with my head still turned away, "but I can't help it." "You can't detach yourself ?" "No.