"I may have seemed to you indifferent about this child, but such has not been the case.
I have feelings and purposes in regard to her which I cannot explain, but which are near my heart.

I see your position and that of your wife, and I feel for you.

If compatible with what I conceive to be my duty, I would let her remain under your care.

But such is not the case.

Surely, it will be far better for both you and Fanny for the change that must come to be made now." The calm, kind, insinuating manner of Jasper disarmed Claire, and made him wish that he could meet the desire of his old employer, without the painful breach in his home circle which must be the consequence.
With his eyes cast upon the floor, he sat silently communing with his own thoughts for some time.