It is Never Too Late to Mend Chapter LIII

In which Mr. Meadows returns from Shropshire with a heart torn between love and prudence, soon becoming entwined in the fortunes and misfortunes of the Merton family, particularly through the secret and illicit perusal of letters meant for another. Thus begins a subtle and painful conquest of hope and desire, as he masks turbulent passions with patience and outward respect, weaving a delicate web of intentions shadowed by conscience and self-delusion.