Before rising, Thyrza had said: 'I will marry him.' In the possible breaking of this bond Lydia saw such a terrible danger that her instincts of absolute sincerity for once were overridden.

If she spoke falsely, it was to save her sister.

Thyrza once married, the face of life would be altered for her; this sudden passionate love would fall like a brief flame.

Lydia had decided upon a bold step.

As soon as it was possible, she would go and see Mr.Egremont, see him herself, and, if he had any heart or any honour, prevail with him that Thyrza might be spared temptation.