“I thought we had parted when you came to Lowick many weeks ago⁠—you thought you were going then,” said Dorothea, her voice trembling a little.

“Yes; but I was in ignorance then of things which I know now⁠—things which have altered my feelings about the future. When I saw you before, I was dreaming that I might come back some day. I don’t think I ever shall⁠—now.” Will paused here.

“You wished me to know the reasons?” said Dorothea, timidly.

“Yes,” said Will, impetuously, shaking his head backward, and looking away from her with irritation in his face. “Of course I must wish it. I have been grossly insulted in your eyes and in the eyes of others. There has been a mean implication against my character. I wish you to know that under no circumstances would I have lowered myself by⁠—under no circumstances would I have given men the chance of saying that I sought money under the pretext of seeking⁠—something else. There was no need of other safeguard against me⁠—the safeguard of wealth was enough.”