I wish I could refuse to believe it, but _there is no doubt whatever_.

You ought to know at once; but perhaps you will have heard already.

I never knew anything more dreadful, and I can't say what I feel.' There was not much more in the letter.

Having fastened up the envelope, Paula let it lie on her desk, whilst she walked about the room.

Each time she passed the desk she looked at the letter, and lingered a little.