It was not, therefore, to be wondered at that his native dominance of character had full opportunity of asserting itself.

He began his preliminary stare with a conscious sense of power, and, as it appeared to have immediate effect on the girl, he felt an ever- growing conviction of ultimate victory.
After a little Lilla's resolution began to flag.

She felt that the contest was unequal--that she was unable to put forth her best efforts.
As she was an unselfish person, she could not fight so well in her own battle as in that of someone whom she loved and to whom she was devoted.
Edgar saw the relaxing of the muscles of face and brow, and the almost collapse of the heavy eyelids which seemed tumbling downward in sleep.
Lilla made gallant efforts to brace her dwindling powers, but for a time unsuccessfully.

At length there came an interruption, which seemed like a powerful stimulant.

Through the wide window she saw Lady Arabella enter the plain gateway of the farm, and advance towards the hall door.
She was clad as usual in tight-fitting white, which accentuated her thin, sinuous figure.
The sight did for Lilla what no voluntary effort could have done.