What reason might Godfrey have for his decisions in Chapter 20?

Godfrey's reasons for his decision in regard to Eppie, seem for the first time in his life to be based upon what's good for someone else.... for the first time he seems to be acting in someone else's best interests besides his own. Neither Godfrey or Nancy are happy with Eppie's remaining with Silas, but they are both big enough to let things be, even if they don't understand the outcome.