He loved his sister, and for her alone would put up with
things otherwise intolerable. It was a new exasperation when he
discovered that Rodman could not be persuaded to continue his work
at New Wanley. All inducements proved vain. Richard had hoped that
at least one advantage might come of the marriage, that Rodman would
devote capital to the works; but Rodman's Socialism cooled strangely
from the day when his ends were secured. He purposed living in
London, and Alice was delighted to encourage him. The girl had
visions of a life such as the heroines of certain novels rejoice in.
For a wonder, her husband was indispensable to the brightness of
that future. Rodman had inspired her with an infatuation. Their
relations once declared, she grudged him every moment he spent away
from her. It was strangely like true passion, the difference only
marked by an extravagant selfishness. She thought of no one, cared
for no one, but herself, Rodman having become part of that self.
With him she was imperiously slavish; her tenderness was a kind of
greed; she did not pretend to forgive her brother for his threatened
opposition, and, having got hold of the idea that Adela took part
against Rodman, she hated her and would not be alone in her company
for a moment. On her marriage day she refused Adela's offered kiss
and did her best to let everyone see how delighted she was to leave
them behind.
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