It was quite natural that a young person, in a moment of excitement and pique, should figuratively raise her sword in air and vow a vow; but it was also quite natural, when the excitement and pique had cooled down, that the young person should experience what might be called a "vow-fright," and feel unable to go through with her part.

In a case such as Dora's, this was very possible indeed, and all that Miss Panney had planned to say on her present visit was intended to inspire the girl, if it should be needed, with some of her own matured inflexibility and fixedness of purpose.

But if the man were doing this sort of thing already and Dora should know it, she would have a right to be discouraged.
Before the old lady reached the Bannisters' gate, she saw Mr.Haverley, in his gig, drive away.

This brightened her up a little.
"He comes here, anyway," she thought; "what a pity Dora is not in." Nevertheless, she went on to the Bannister house; and when she found Dora was in, she began to scold her.
"This will never do, will never do," she said.

"Get angry with him if you choose, but don't show it.