Arrived at Victoria, she crossed to the main station, and went to the ladies' waiting-room for the purpose of bathing her face.

She had red, swollen eyes, and her hair was in slight disorder.

This done, she inquired as to the next train for Herne Hill.
One had just gone; another would leave in about a quarter of an hour.
A dreadful indecision was harassing her.

Ought she, did she dare, to return home at all?
Even if her strength sufficed for simulating a natural manner, could she consent to play so base a part?
There was but one possible alternative.

She might go to Virginia's lodgings, and there remain, writing to her husband that she had left him.