He possessed a spirit of independent manliness, and would brook no favor that was not warranted by honor.
When Gerald Bereford asked his uncle for a right to address the Lady Rosamond, it was from a spirit of honor.

He dearly loved the beautiful girl, though he had never avowed his feelings, and when she treated his advances with coolness, he still cherished the hope that in the end his love would be reciprocated.

On receiving the joyful assurance from Sir Thomas that the great object of both families was the consummation of these hopes, the ardent lover was happy beyond doubt.

Sir Thomas had led Gerald Bereford to believe that the Lady Rosamond had always favoured his suit, but in girlish caprice had refused him any encouragement until the expiration of her visit, when she would return home ready to receive the courtly attentions of her relative.
Cheered by these fond assurances, Gerald Bereford did anxiously look forward to Lady Rosamond's return.

Sir Thomas had indeed communicated this matter to his nephew with a firm assurance of the realization on the part of both.