Robert found a moment to exchange a few more whispered sentences. He was waiting at the foot of the staircase as Caroline descended after putting on her shawl.
"Must I call Shirley a noble creature now?" he asked.
"If you wish to speak the truth, certainly."
"Must I forgive her?"
"Forgive her? Naughty Robert! Was she in the wrong, or were you?"
"Must I at length love her downright, Cary?"

Robert found a moment to exchange a few more whispered sentences as Caroline put on her shawl before departing.
"Must I forgive Shirley now?" he asked.
"Forgive her? Naughty Robert! Was she in the wrong, or were you?"
"Must I at length love her, Cary?"
