But it is hard for an old man to be straightforward.

If he has read much he is discursive, and if he has not read he is tedious with many words.

I didn't leave Salem at once.
I met George, and he did not even attempt to apologize for the wrong he had done me.

He repeated the fool saying that all is fair in love.
'You ought to be glad that you discovered her lack of love in time,' he said.

This was consolation, surely.