She wondered again at the flush that crimsoned his face; but the time was coming when she would understand it all.
It is probable that if Ronald at that time had had as much of Dora's society as he liked, he would soon have discovered his mistake, and no great harm would have been done; but the foolish romance of foolish meetings had a charm for him.

In those hurried interviews he had only time to think of Dora's love--he never noted her deficiencies; he was charmed with her tenderness and grace; her artless affection was so pretty; the difference between her and those with whom he was accustomed to talk was so great; her very ignorance had a piquant charm for him.

So they went on to their fate.
One by one Lord Earle's guests departed, yet Ronald had not told his secret.

A new element crept into his love, and urged him on.

Walking one day through the park with his father they overtook Dora's father.
A young man was with him and the two were talking earnestly together, so earnestly that they never heard the two gentlemen; and in passing by Ronald distinguished the words, "You give me your daughter, Mr.Thorne, and trust me to make her happy." Ronald Earle turned quickly to look at the speaker.