She knew that Gertrude, when so addressed, would have maintained her dignity, and have concealed her secret, even if she allowed herself to have a secret to conceal.

She knew that it behoved her to be repellent and antagonistic to the first vows of a first lover.

But, alas! she had no power of antagonism, no energy for repulse left in her.

Her knees seemed to be weak beneath her, and all she could do was to pluck to pieces the few flowers that she carried at her waist.
Alaric saw his advantage, but was too generous to push it closely; nor indeed did he choose to commit himself to all the assured intentions of a positive declaration.

He wished to raise an interest in Linda's heart, and having done so, to leave the matter to chance.