He had a purpose in everything he did, and his purpose to-night was to test the strength of his influence over Georgina Halliday.

In the old time before her marriage that influence had been very strong.

It was for him, to discover now whether it still endured.
"You made your choice, Mrs.Halliday," he went on presently, "and it was a choice which all prudent people must have approved.

What chance had a man, who was only heir to a practice worth four or five hundred pounds, against the inheritor of Hyley Farm with its two hundred and fifty acres, and three thousand pounds' worth of live stock, plant, and working capital?
When do the prudent people ever stop to consider truth and honour, or old promises, or an affection that dates from childhood?
They calculate everything by pounds, shillings, and pence; and according to their mode of reckoning you were in the right when you jilted me to marry Tom Halliday." Georgy laid down her work and took out her handkerchief.

She was one of those women who take refuge in tears when they find themselves at a disadvantage.