Something in that action, at that time, shocked and humiliated her.

Completely misunderstanding him, she thought he was reminding her of the distance that separated them in social rank.

Oh, the shame of it! the shame of it! Would other governesses have taken a liberty with their master?
A fit of hysterical sobbing burst its way through her last reserves of self-control; she started to her feet, and ran out of the summer-house.
Alarmed and distressed, he followed her instantly.
She was leaning against the pedestal of a statue in the garden, panting, shuddering, a sight to touch the heart of a far less sensitive man than the man who now approached her.

"Sydney!" he said.

"Dear little Sydney!" She tried to speak to him in return.