At that moment she knew beyond doubt that he had come early on purpose to find her alone and to make her an offer.

And only then for the first time the whole thing presented itself in a new, different aspect; only then she realized that the question did not affect her only-- with whom she would be happy, and whom she loved--but that she would have that moment to wound a man whom she liked.

And to wound him cruelly.

What for? Because he, dear fellow, loved her, was in love with her.