That was why she hesitated.

Yes--it WOULD "all be over in a minute," just as Uncle George said, but when would the next break come?
And then again there was her mother's life with all the misery that a broken promise had caused her.

Uncle George was not the only young gallant who had been put to bed in her grandfather's house.
Her mother had loved too--just as much as she loved Harry--loved with her whole soul--until grandpa Barkeley put his foot down.
St.George waited in silence as he read her mind.

Breaches between most of the boys and girls were easily patched up--a hearty cry, an outstretched hand--"I am so sorry," and they were in each other's arms.
Not so with Kate.

Her reason, as well as her heart, had to be satisfied.
This was one of the things that made her different from all the other girls about her, and this too was what had given her first place in the affections and respect of all who knew her.