Long before, she had realized the hopelessness of it all.

Knowing that he drank from the cup of dissipation, she had even sought to hold him in contempt; but to her he had never ceased to be a gentleman, tender, manly and kind.

It is contempt that casts the first spadeful in the grave of love.
"Come, girl," he said, going to her side; "you have something to tell me.

What is it ?" She turned to find his hand outstretched and a friendly look in his eyes.

Impulsively she gave him both her hands.