I fear that some small part of this gratification was owing to her rank and wealth.
To be the one friend of a widowed countess, young, rich, and beautiful, was something much out of the common way.

Such confidence lifted him far above the Wallikers of the world.

That he was pleased to be so trusted by one that was beautiful, was, I think, no disgrace to him; although I bear in mind his condition as a man engaged.

It might be dangerous, but that danger in such case it would be his duty to overcome.

But in order that it might be overcome, it would certainly be well that she should know his position.
I fear he speculated as he went along as to what might have been his condition in the world had he never seen Florence Burton.