A romantic sentiment is tougher.

Now, I have been straightforward with you: will you be with me?
I shall not hurt the man, or wound his feelings." He paused; but it was to find that no admission of the truth, save what oozed out in absence of speech, was to be expected.

She seemed, after the fashion of women, to have got accustomed to the new atmosphere into which he had dragged her, without any conception of a forward movement.
"I see I must explain to you how we are situated," said Wilfrid.

"We are in a serious plight.

You should be civil to this woman for several reasons--for your father's sake and your own.