Self-sacrifice is all very well, you know, but we have had rather too much of it on our side, and should like to see a little on the other.

What do you think of my nephew Charles ?" The question was so sudden and unexpected that Clara gave quite a jump in her chair.

"I--I--I hardly ever have thought of your nephew Charles." "No?
Oh, you must think him well over, for I want to speak to you about him." "To me?
But why ?" "It seemed to me most delicate.

You see, Clara, the matter stands in this way.

It is quite possible that I may soon find myself in a completely new sphere of life, which will involve fresh duties and make it impossible for me to keep up a household which Charles can share." Clara stared.