I knew it, I believe, before she knew it herself; and I could most easily have prevented it by merely treating Trevelyan with a little coldness, for he is a man whom the smallest rebuff would completely discourage.

But you will believe, my dearest Margaret, that no thought of such base selfishness ever passed through my mind.

I would as soon have locked my dear Nancy up in a nunnery as have put the smallest obstacle in the way of her having a good husband.

I therefore gave every facility and encouragement to both of them.

What I have myself felt it is unnecessary to say.