Some men do .-- Come," she went on, "I will be open with you, Hesper; you don't hang for thoughts in England.

I will tell you what I would do with a man I hated--that is, if I was compelled to marry him; it would hardly be fair otherwise, and I have a weakness for fair play .-- I would give him absolute fair play." The last three words she spoke with a strange expression of mingled scorn and jest, then paused, and seemed to have said all she meant to say.
"Go on," sighed Hesper; "you amuse me." Her tone expressed anything but amusement.

"What would a woman of your experience do in my place ?" Sepia fixed a momentary look on Hesper; the words seemed to have stung her.

She knew well enough that, if Lady Malice came to know anything of her real history, she would have bare time to pack up her small belongings.

She wanted Hesper married, that she might go with her into the world again; at the same time, she feared her marriage with Mr.
Redmain would hardly favor her wishes.