On the contrary, I believed that the hot moment there had welded a friendship between us which would last all our lives through." He walked over to the window, stood looking out a moment, then came back and resumed his chair before me.
"I do not favor your suit with my cousin to any greater extent than I did when we were at Sundridge," I continued, determined that there should be no misunderstanding of my position in that respect, "though since that time I have learned that you are a far better man than I had ever supposed.

I have not recommended my cousin to the king, nor is she his favorite in the sense you seem to believe.

I do not know the cause of her aversion to you, and, sir, I have nothing else to say except that I take it for granted that you know I speak the truth.

This is my explanation.
It is for you to say whether you accept or reject it." I rose, giving him to understand that I was ready to take my leave, but he motioned me to resume my chair.

After gazing vacantly out the window for a moment, he covered his face with his hands and answered:-- "I accept your explanation gladly, Baron Ned.