'A man would be very hard of heart if he could forget it.' Now must be the moment for his exertion! She had spoken so plainly as to leave no doubt of her meaning, and she was pausing for an answer; yet he hesitated,--not in his purpose, but doubting as to his own manner of declaring it.

He must be very decided.

Upon that he was resolved.

He would be decided, though they should drag him in pieces with wild horses for it afterwards.

But he would fain be gentle with his aunt if it were possible.