I believe he is smoking and calling himself names for not having come to New York last May, when father first invited him.
Had he done so things might have been different." "Yes, they might.

When Good Fortune calls, and the called 'will not when they may,' then, 'when they will' Good Fortune has become Misfortune.
Welcome a pleasure or a gain at once, or don't answer it at all.

It was on this rock, Ethel, the bark that carried my love went to pieces.

I know; yes, I know!" "My dear aunt!" "It is all right now, dear; but things might have been that are not.

As to Dora, I think she may be trusted with Basil Stanhope.