"He laughed a little, for the first time; but he grew as grave as possible immediately after.
"'I have not meant to be selfish,' he said; 'But I could not take a woman to Fiji, who had not thoroughly considered the matter and counted the cost. That could not be done in a little while. The world has a fair chance now to see if it can weaken Miss Powle's principles or overcome her faithfulness to them. It is better that she should try herself perhaps, before having such a question asked of her.'
"'And suppose she comes clear out of the trial?' I said.
"'Then I shall be in Fiji.'
"We were both silent a while. He began then.
"'Mrs. Caxton, without invading any confidences or seeking to know anything that should not be known,—may I ask you a question?'
"'Certainly,' I said. 'I reserve the discretion of answering.'
"'Of course. Your words look like a rebuke of the attitude I have taken towards this subject. Is it proper for me to ask, whether you have any foundation for them beyond your general knowledge of human nature and your good will towards me? I mean—whether you, as a friend, see any ground of hope for me?'
"'If you were going to stay in England,' I said, 'I would answer no such question. Every man must make his own observations and run his own risk. But these circumstances are different. And appealed to as a friend—and answering on my own observations simply—I should say, that I think your case not hopeless.'
"I could see the colour rise in his cheek; but he sat quite still and did not speak, till it faded again.