He doubted the true feelings of his child, but he was determined that the event should take place after sufficient time had elapsed.

Lady Bereford knew that Sir Thomas was really deceiving himself as well as his nephew; but with the keen perception of her nature, kept her own counsel.

She, as well as Sir Thomas, was determined to carry out her design, for which purpose she closely concealed part of her views from Maude upon the reading of Lady Rosamond's letter, also her message to Sir Thomas, their interview, concessions and result.
Practical and calculating woman of the world as was Lady Bereford, might it be possible that she could heartlessly seal that daintily perfumed missive which was to become the source of such almost unendurable anguish?
Really, one would fain exculpate her ladyship of the great wrong--a wrong which for years could not be obliterated from the hearts of those whose sufferings were borne silently and without reproach, each bearing the burden with a sickening heart, feeling that death would be a happy relief.
What a world is ours.

What a problem is life.

Is there any word in the English language more suggestive?
Life--its surroundings, aspects, all its outward associations.