With all appearances against Egremont, could he preserve the nice balance of his judgment through an experience such as this?
Had he seen Egremont at once, after Thyrza's disappearance, it would not have been so hard for him to credit the denial.

The blow was not felt to its full until the night had passed.

Thyrza's exculpation of Egremont would then have been strong upon the latter's side.

But the fruitless journey frenzied him.

It was impossible for him to avoid the belief that the letter had been contrived to deceive him.