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172 "However," she continued, "if, on the other hand, a man should happen to love another better than his affianced, it is considered that he would not be justified in marrying the latter; but she invariably receives a full confession and explanation from her fickle lover, whose infirmity the lady is implored to overlook. However, they manage to arrange matters between themselves, and in the end part, knowing that it is the best course." She went on, "Cases of the kind we have been discussing, however are, fortunately, exceptionally rare, and this breaking-off engagement business is looked upon with disfavour, as it implies a want of steadfastness of purpose in the party at fault that is not calculated to inspire future confidence."

We were now approaching the palace, and Alvarez left me, going in the direction of her own quarters.

I met Yeyema in the grounds, and he informed me that they would soon be ready; so I hurried to my rooms, and having fitted up myself in holiday fashion, went into the garden, where I met Onneyubbla, when we walked into the dining-hall together. In reply to my question, he said that he was not going to the icefields on this occasion, but would probably go next trip.