And second, there was the man's continual policy to be remembered, how his conduct had been continually mingled with caresses, and he had scarce ever, in the midst of so much contention, laid aside a mask of friendship.

He must conceive that my imprisonment had incensed me.

Perhaps this little jesting, friendly message was intended to disarm my rancour?
I will be honest--and I think it did.

I felt a sudden warmth towards that beautiful Miss Grant, that she should stoop to so much interest in my affairs.

The summoning up of Catriona moved me of itself to milder and more cowardly counsels.