Few things in life turn out as we desire; to have done one's best with a good intention is much to look back upon--very few have more.' Gilbert did not show this letter to Lydia, nor had he told her of what he had learnt in the conversation with Egremont.

The fear would have seemed more intolerable if he had uttered it.

But the hope which supported him was proof against even such a danger as this.

To his mind there was something unnatural in a union between Egremont and Thyrza; try as he would, he could not realise it as having come to pass.

The two were parted by so vast a social distinction, and, let Nature say what it will, the artificialities of life are wont to prevail.