"You totally mistake my character.

I have never been accustomed to listening to such words, Mr.Winston, nor do I now believe I merit them.

I choose to earn my own living, and I retain my own self-respect, even although while doing this I am unfortunate enough to forfeit yours." "But, Miss Norvell, do you realize what the Gayety is ?" "Not being deprived of all my natural powers of observation, I most certainly believe I do--we were there together last evening." She puzzled, confused him, outwardly appearing to trifle with those matters which seemed to his mind most gravely serious.

Yet, his was a dogged resolution that would not easily confess defeat.
"Miss Norvell," he began firmly, and in the depth of his earnestness he touched her hand where it yet clung to the door, "I may, indeed, be presuming upon an exceedingly brief friendship, but my sole excuse must be the very serious interest I feel in you, especially in your undoubted ability and future as an actress.

It is always a great misfortune for any man to repose trust and confidence in the character of a woman, and then suddenly awaken to discover himself deceived.
Under these circumstances I should be unworthy of friendship did I fail in plain speaking.