As it is, I understand that she _could_ only refuse, and I am most grateful for all she says about me.

I regret more than ever that I don't know her.' As she handed the letter back, it shook like a blown leaf.

She was pale, and spoke with effort.

But in a few moments, when conversation was resumed, her tone took a lightness and freedom which confirmed Rolfe's impression that she had escaped from a great embarrassment; and this surmise he inevitably connected with Alma's display of strange ill-humour.
Not another word passed on the subject.

With frequent glances towards the door, Mrs.Frothingham again talked commonplace.