The rose of Aunt Mary's real affection had a little scent, but it was set round with thorns.
"He has behaved disgracefully," she said, looking with anger and disappointment at her niece's faded face.
"We have discussed that before," said Magdalen tranquilly.

"I, as you know, do not blame him.

But it is all a hundred years ago, and better forgotten." "He was poor then.

No one ever thought he would succeed with two lives between.

But it is different now that he is wealthy and in a position to marry." "He has never been in a position to marry me," said Magdalen, "because he never cared enough for me to make an effort on my behalf.