A wife couldn't.

I'd sacrifice every principle I ever had, every scrap of self-respect, myself and all that belongs to me, to save Dick's life!" There was a brief, throbbing silence.

Helen was feverishly clutching Philippa's hand.

Lessingham's eyes were fixed upon the tortured face into which he gazed.

There were no women like this in his own country.
"Dear lady," he said, and for the first time his own voice shook, "I abandon my arguments.