He met several acquaintances, and lingered with each in conversation; but the watchful searching eyes were never a moment at rest.
The instant Mr.Dexter left the room, there was a change in his wife.

The half indifferent, almost listless manner gave place to one that expressed deep struggling emotions.

Her bent form became erect, and she stood for a little while listening with her eyes upon the door, as if in doubt whether her husband would not return.

After the lapse of two or three minutes, she walked to the door, and placing her fingers on the key, turned it, locking herself in.

This done, she retired slowly towards a lounge by the window, nearly every trace of excitement gone, and sitting down, was soon so entirely absorbed in thought as scarcely to show a sign of external life.
It was half an hour from the time Mr.Dexter left his wife, when he returned.