No doubt they have had their troubles, poor things; and everybody thinks my husband can make them rich if only he chooses.' A stout, important-looking man paused before Mrs.Frothingham, and spoke familiarly.
'I'm looking for B.F.

Hasn't he put in an appearance yet ?' 'I really hope he's enjoying himself somewhere else,' replied the hostess, rising, with a laugh.

'You leave him no peace.' The stout man did not smile, but looked gravely for a moment at Rolfe, a stranger to him, and turned away.
Herr Wilenski, the virtuoso, was about to play something; the guests moved to seat themselves.

Rolfe, however, preferred to remain in this room, where he could hear the music sufficiently well.

He had not quite recovered from his chagrin at the interruption of his talk with Alma--a foolishness which made him impatient with himself.