But she herself, while envious calumny raged round her, went on her way calm and grave as ever.
But the proposal long warded off could not be parried forever.

The frenzied passion of the Archdeacon was at last not to be restrained.
Aunt Aggie had in her mind a set of proposals, all good, out of which it became harder and harder as time went on to select one.

But her answer was ever the same, a pained but firm refusal.

She was happy in her lot.
She was greatly needed where she was.

She did not wish to marry.