The little incident of the handkerchief caused us all to laugh and went a long way toward making us easy.
Hamilton's frankness had taken part of the wind out of my sails, and his open confession had at least paved the way for absolution, which I feared might be followed by disastrous results, since to forgive always makes the heart grow fonder.
Presently Hamilton turned to Frances, saying: "You may better appreciate your cousin's fidelity to your interest when I tell you that in speaking thus frankly to you, he placed himself in danger of two misfortunes, both of which, probably, he felt sure would befall him.

Please do not think that I boast, but it is true, nevertheless, that my sword point is considered one of the most dangerous in England.

Doubtless Baron Ned expected to be called upon to stand by his words.

Furthermore, he is a suitor for my sister's hand, as you may know, and of late has sought my friendship, in part, no doubt, for the purpose of forwarding his cause." At this point he turned toward me and smiled.

I, too, smiled, though not joyously, for I thought surely this affair would ruin all my chances with Mary.
"Therefore," continued Hamilton, "he had much to lose in arraigning me, and nothing to gain but your welfare.