'Well worthy of them.

No riches'-- here he stroked his chin and mused--'could have compensated for the loss of such a nature.
Not to mention that in gaining her affection I have followed the bent of my own wishes, and baulked the selfish schemes of others who had no right to form them.

She is quite worthy--more than worthy--of the sacrifices I have made.

Yes, she is.

No doubt of it.' These ruminations might or might not have reached Mark Tapley; for though they were by no means addressed to him, yet they were softly uttered.