He would not have a cab, he would walk, Irene was to say good-night to Soames for him, and if she wanted a little gaiety, well, he would drive her down to Richmond any day.
He walked home, and going upstairs, woke Emily out of the first sleep she had had for four and twenty hours, to tell her that it was his impression things were in a bad way at Soames's; on this theme he descanted for half an hour, until at last, saying that he would not sleep a wink, he turned on his side and instantly began to snore.
In Montpellier Square Soames, who had come from the picture room, stood invisible at the top of the stairs, watching Irene sort the letters brought by the last post.

She turned back into the drawing-room; but in a minute came out, and stood as if listening.

Then she came stealing up the stairs, with a kitten in her arms.

He could see her face bent over the little beast, which was purring against her neck.

Why couldn't she look at him like that?
Suddenly she saw him, and her face changed.
"Any letters for me ?" he said.
"Three." He stood aside, and without another word she passed on into the bedroom..