An explanation could alone bring matters back to their original standing, but I did not know how to force it upon the lady.

Her husband followed us at some distance with the sister.
When we were far enough in advance, I ventured to ask her why she had supposed my toothache to have been feigned.
"I am very candid," she said; "it is because the difference in your manner was so marked, and because you were so careful to avoid looking at me through the whole day.

A toothache would not have prevented you from being polite, and therefore I thought it had been feigned for some purpose.

But I am certain that not one of us can possibly have given you any grounds for such a rapid change in your manner." "Yet something must have caused the change, and you, madam, are only half sincere." "You are mistaken, sir, I am entirely sincere; and if I have given you any motive for anger, I am, and must remain, ignorant of it.

Be good enough to tell me what I have done." "Nothing, for I have no right to complain." "Yes, you have; you have a right, the same that I have myself; the right which good society grants to every one of its members.