Should I think it advisable, I do not question my ability to open the gates of my heart and bid her go.

That would be a serious thing for her; and, as man is powerful, so, I think, should he be merciful.

She has, no doubt, gained admittance, as it were, furtively; but can I, as a gentleman, send away a weak, confiding woman who loves me simply because she cannot help it?
Nay, more, in a pathetic case of this kind, have I not a certain responsibility?
Does not her attachment to me give her a claim upon me?
She saw me, and love came to her.

She looks upon me as the noblest and best of my sex.

I do not say I am; it may be that I am not.