"There is a man who takes Catharine out more frequently, and keeps her out much later than I like. I mean Cecil Reeve. But what I say only makes my sister sullen. She knows he is a friend of yours....
And, Clive, I am rather afraid she is beginning to care more for him than is quite safe for her to ever care for any man of that class.
"And Doris has met other men of the same kind—I don't know who they are, for she won't tell me. But after the theatre she goes out with them; and it is doing her no good.
"There is only one more item in my confession, then I'm done.
"It is this: I have heard recently from various sources that my being seen with you so frequently is causing much gossip concerning you among your friends.
"Is this true? And if it is, will it damage you? I don't care about myself. I know very few people and it doesn't matter. Besides I care enough about our companionship to continue it, whatever untruths are said or thought about me. But how about you, Clive? Because I also care enough for you to give you up if my being seen with you is going to disgrace you.
"This is my confession. I have told you all. Now, could you tell me what it is best for us to do?
"Think clearly; act wisely; don't even dream of sacrificing yourself with your usual generosity—if it is indeed to be a case for self-sacrifice. Let me do that by giving you up. I shall do it anyway if ever I am convinced that my companionship is hurting your reputation.
"Be just to us both by being frank with me. Your decision shall be my law.