"I persist in being simply myself, and true to my own perceptions.
Wherein have I failed in courtesy toward Miss Wildmere?"
"But you dislike her most cordially."
"And you like her most cordially and more. Have I not granted your perfect right to do so?"
"If you were even the friend you claim to be, you would not be so indifferent."
"I have not said I was indifferent. Miss Wildmere is far from indifferent to me. What have I done to gain her ill-will?"
"Much, as human nature goes. You have made yourself her rival in beauty and attractiveness."
"Is that human nature? If that is the cause of her hostility I should say it is Miss Wildmere's nature."
"Let us change the subject," said Graydon, a little irritably. "We shall not agree on this point, I fear; you share in Henry's prejudices."
"I did not introduce the subject, Graydon, and I think for myself."
"Hang it all, Madge! you are so changed I scarcely know you. Every time we meet I find you more of a conundrum. Friend, indeed! You certainly have been a distant one in every sense. If I had been the friend you say I was, you would have written me about the marvellous transformation you were accomplishing."