He simply, coolly opened the door, and bade her easily and triumphantly escape.

Had he said one word of tenderness the reaction must have set in.
She was silent.
"I did hope, by sacrificing all my own hopes, to effect a reconciliation.

But when that young man spoke insulting words about you, I determined at once to offer you my devoted protection.

I ask no more than you are able to give, your respect Will you accept my life-long protection as your husband ?" "Yes!" said the passionate girl in an agony of despair.