He hoped that Giles would of his own accord make some final announcement that he entirely withdrew his pretensions to Grace, and so get the thing past and done with.

For though Giles had in a measure acquiesced in the wish of her family, he could make matters unpleasant if he chose to work upon Grace; and hence, when Melbury saw the young man approaching along the road one day, he kept friendliness and frigidity exactly balanced in his eye till he could see whether Giles's manner was presumptive or not.
His manner was that of a man who abandoned all claims.

"I am glad to meet ye, Mr.Melbury," he said, in a low voice, whose quality he endeavored to make as practical as possible.

"I am afraid I shall not be able to keep that mare I bought, and as I don't care to sell her, I should like--if you don't object--to give her to Miss Melbury.

The horse is very quiet, and would be quite safe for her." Mr.Melbury was rather affected at this.