He had had time to become aware of this possible impression in her, and his virtually urging her into the carriage was connected with his feeling that he must take action on the new ground.

A certain ambiguity in her would absolutely have tormented him; but he had already found something to soothe and correct--as to which she had, on her side, a shrewd notion of what it would be.

She was herself, for that matter, prepared, and she was, of a truth, as she took her seat in the brougham, amazed at her preparation.

It allowed her scarce an interval; she brought it straight out.
"I was certain that was what father would say if I should leave him alone.

I HAVE been leaving him alone, and you see the effect.