With what courtly grace and reverence he had kissed her hand! Vane was a gentleman by nature; Dorrimore merely called himself one and what was more boasted of it.
But what did it matter to her?
Vane had done her a service and it was only right she should repay him in some sort.

This was how she tried to sum up the position.

Whether Mr.Gay befriended him or not, their acquaintance would have to cease.

He was penniless and so was she.

If she confessed as much as this to him he would be embarrassed and distressed because he could not help her.
"I dursn't tell him," she sighed.