Gilbert stopped too, for he did not care to pass them and be recognised.

He crossed the road, and from the other side watched them as they stood talking.

Now they were taking leave of each other.

Ackroyd appeared to hold the girl's hand longer than she liked; when she struggled to get away, he suddenly bent forward and snatched a kiss.

With a gesture of indignation she escaped from him.
Gilbert had a desire to join Ackroyd, now that the latter was alone.
But as he began to recross the street, the young man moved on and turned into a public-house.