I am afraid there was not even an idea of a superior morality in himself in giving up the possibility of loving her.

Ever since Stacy had first seen her he had fancied that Stacy liked her,--indeed, Kitty fancied it, too,--and it seemed almost providential now that he should know how to assist his old partner to happiness.

For it was inconceivable that Stacy should not be able to rescue this woman from her shameful bonds, or that she should not consent to it through his (Barker's) arguments and entreaties.

To a "champion of dames" this seemed only right and proper.

In his unfailing optimism he translated Stacy's laugh as embarrassment and Demorest's as only ignorance of the real question.