He was grieved, more grieved than he had thought he would have been.

The thing that he had wanted moderately, he now wanted the more in that it was denied to him.

But he was able to perceive the exact truth of his position, and to calculate what might be his chances if he went on with his suit, and what his advantage if he at once abandoned it.
"I do not wish to press you unfairly, Bell; but may I ask if any other preference--" "There is no other preference," she answered.

And then again they were silent for a minute or two.
"My uncle will be much grieved at this," he said at last.
"If that be all," said Bell, "I do not think that we need either of us trouble ourselves.

He can have no right to dispose of our hearts." "I understand the taunt, Bell." "Dear Bernard, there was no taunt.