Then this horror came upon him.

Forgetting his errand, he drew aside into a quieter street, and struggled with his anguish.

Do you laugh at him for his imbecility?
Try first to understand him.
But his business must be performed; with trembling limbs he hurried onwards, and at length reached the office of Legge Brothers.

The member of the firm to whom the note which he bore was addressed had but a few minutes ago left the place; he would return within an hour.

How could the time be spent?
He began to wander aimlessly about the streets.