More than once was Marion Arleigh tempted to break that solemn promise, and tell all to Lady Ridsdale.

She longed to do so--the fact of being blamed would not prevent her, she felt that she deserved it--but she was one of those who are most scrupulous in keeping a promise once given.

Of one thing she was quite resolved--she would write to Allan and tell him this clandestine engagement must come to an end.

She could not bear the burden of the secret any longer, neither could she possibly fulfil the contract.

She found on examining her own heart that she did not love him, and a marriage without love was absurd.
She told him she would always be his friend, that she should look upon his advancement in life as her especial care; she should always remember him, with the most grateful affection; but as for love, all notion of it must be considered at an end.