"That is to say, one of them was already abroad." "Indeed! The whole thing seems very complicated.

I think it needs explanation.

I shouldn't feel justified in calling upon Mrs.Quarrier until"---- Her voice was overpowered by that of Mrs.Tenterden, who demanded loudly: "Is it true that she has already become very intimate with _that person_ Mrs.Wade ?" "Oh, I _do_ hope not!" exclaimed several ladies.
Here was an inexhaustible topic.

It occupied more than an hour, until the last tea-cup had been laid aside and the more discreet callers were already on their way home..