It was dangerous, she knew, to express her abhorrence of Hubert too persistently; yet, on the other hand, she was convinced that Adela had been so deeply shocked by the revelations of Hubert's wickedness that her moral nature would be in arms against her lingering inclination.

After much mental wear and tear, she decided to adopt the strong course of asking Alfred's assistance.
Alfred was sure to view the proposed match with hearty approval, and, though he might not have much influence directly, he could in all probability secure a potent ally in the person of Letty Tew.

This was rather a brilliant idea; Mrs.Waltham waited impatiently for her son's return from Belwick on Saturday.
She broached the subject to him with much delicacy.
'I am so convinced, Alfred, that it would be for your sister's happiness.

There really is no harm whatever in aiding her inexperience; that is all that I wish to do.

I'm sure you understand me ?' 'I understand well enough,' returned the young man; 'but if you convince Adela against her will you'll do a clever thing.