But he never suspected any one, and believed at the time of publication in the entire friendliness of the Carlyle family.

His answer to the charge of betraying a trust was simple and satisfactory.

Carlyle had changed his mind.

This is clear from the fact that he gave Froude the memoir in 1871, five years after it was written, to do as he pleased with; and still clearer from the conversation in 1880, when Froude told him that he meant to publish, and Carlyle said "Very well." Moreover, the will, a formal and legal document, expressly gave Froude entire discretion in the matter.

Froude replied at first with temper and judgment.