The streets of London are terrible to one who is both lonely and unhappy; the indifference of their hard egotism becomes fierce hostility; instead of merely disregarding, they crush.

As soon as he could command his thoughts, Piers made for the shortest way, and hurried on.
Mrs.Otway admitted him; Alexander, she said, was away on business, but would soon return.

On entering the large room, Piers was startled at the change in its appearance.

The well-carpeted floor, the numerous chairs of inviting depth and softness, the centre-table, the handsome bureau, the numerous pictures, and a multitude of knickknacks not to be taken in at one glance, made it plain that most of the money he had lent his brother had been expended at once in this direction.

Bridget stood watching his face, and at the first glimmer of a smile broke into jubilation.