"I am not ashamed of my engagement." "As you had not spoken of it yourself, I thought you might have a reason for not having it known." "A man does n't gossip about such a matter with strangers," Roderick rejoined, with the ring of irritation in his voice.
"With strangers--no!" said Rowland, smiling.
Roderick continued his work; but after a moment, turning round with a frown: "If you supposed I had a reason for being silent, pray why should you have spoken ?" "I did not speak idly, my dear Roderick.

I weighed the matter before I spoke, and promised myself to let you know immediately afterwards.

It seemed to me that Miss Light had better know that your affections are pledged." "The Cavaliere has put it into your head, then, that I am making love to her ?" "No; in that case I would not have spoken to her first." "Do you mean, then, that she is making love to me ?" "This is what I mean," said Rowland, after a pause.

"That girl finds you interesting, and is pleased, even though she may play indifference, at your finding her so.

I said to myself that it might save her some sentimental disappointment to know without delay that you are not at liberty to become indefinitely interested in other women." "You seem to have taken the measure of my liberty with extraordinary minuteness!" cried Roderick.
"You must do me justice.