Virginia's voice inquired hurriedly who was there, and on Monica's announcing herself there followed a startled exclamation.
'Just a minute, my love! Only a minute.' When the door opened Monica was surprised by a disorder in her sister's appearance.

Virginia had flushed cheeks, curiously vague eyes, and hair ruffled as if she had just risen from a nap.

She began to talk in a hurried, disconnected way, trying to explain that she had not been quite well, and was not yet properly dressed.
'What a strange smell!' Monica exclaimed, looking about the room.

'It's like brandy.' 'You notice it?
I have--I was obliged to get--to ask Mrs.Conisbee for--I don't want to alarm you, dear, but I felt rather faint.

Indeed, I thought I should have a fainting fit.