If I seem to expect too much of you, Iris, pray remember that I am speaking with a true regard for your interests." In those words, he made his generous appeal to her.

She proved herself to be worthy of it.
Stated briefly, the retrospect began with the mysterious anonymous letters which had been addressed to Sir Giles.
Lord Harry's explanation had been offered to Iris gratefully, but with some reserve, after she had told him who the stranger at the milestone really was.

"I entreat you to pardon me, if I shrink from entering into particulars," he had said.

"Circumstances, at the time, amply justified me in the attempt to use the banker's political influence as a means of securing Arthur's safety.

I knew enough of Sir Giles's mean nature to be careful in trusting him; but I did hope to try what my personal influence might do.