She had respected him at all events; now, no doubt she fancied he had not deserved her respect.
This magnificent piece of self-torturing logic sufficed to occupy him all the morning.
At luncheon-time he was careful not to come down before the bell rang.
As he prepared himself, the glass showed a drawn visage, heavy eyes; he thought he was uglier than ever.
Descending, he heard no voices.

With tremors he stepped into the dining-room, and there sat Mrs.Hannaford alone.
"They have gone off for the day," she said, with a kind look.

"To Dorking, and Leith Hill, and I don't know where." Piers felt a stab through the heart.

He stammered something about a hope that they would enjoy themselves.

The meal passed very silently, for Mrs.Hannaford was meditative.