All arts being tried, every temptation being summoned to his aid, dissimulation being carried to its utmost bound, Maxwell, at length, nearly accomplished his purpose.

The lady's affections were withdrawn from her husband and transferred to him.

She could not, as yet, be reconciled to dishonor.
All efforts to induce her to elope with him were ineffectual.

She permitted herself to love, and to avow her love; but at this limit she stopped, and was immoveable.
Hence this revolution in her sentiments was productive only of despair.
Her rectitude of principle preserved her from actual guilt, but could not restore to her her ancient affection, or save her from being the prey of remorseful and impracticable wishes.

Her husband's absence produced a state of suspense.