It is all barbaric ritual.

I know you think I am callous, but I cannot help that.

For myself, I wish the earth close about me, and level green grass above me, and no one knowing of the place; or else, fire or the sea." "Mrs.Falchion," said I, "between us there need be no delicate words.
You appear to have neither imagination, nor idolatry, nor remembrances, nor common womanly kindness." "Indeed!" she said.

"Yet you might know me better." Here she touched my arm with the tips of her fingers, and, in spite of myself, I felt my pulse beat faster.

It seemed to me that in her presence, even now, I could not quite trust myself.