If she discerned any serious change, any grave indication of disappointment-- What was her life to be?
At first they would travel together; but before long it might be necessary to have a settled home, and what then would be her social position, her duties and pleasures?
Housekeeping, mere domesticities, could never occupy her for more than the smallest possible part of each day.

Having lost one purpose in life, dignified, absorbing, likely to extend its sphere as time went on, what other could she hope to substitute for it?
Love of husband--perhaps of child.

There must be more than that.

Rhoda did not deceive herself as to the requirements of her nature.

Practical activity in some intellectual undertaking; a share--nay, leadership--in some "movement;" contact with the revolutionary life of her time--the impulses of her heart once satisfied, these things would again claim her.