Alas that it was not so!" She passed from her husband's presence again, seeming almost to vanish where she stood.
"What is to be done ?" said Mr.Dexter, turning towards Mrs.Loring, with a certain shame-facedness, that showed his own perception of the aspect in which his hasty conduct had placed him.
"It is impossible to answer that question now," replied Mrs.Loring.
"These muddy waters must have time to run clear.

As for Jessie, it is plain that she needs seclusion, and freedom from all causes of excitement.

That you have wronged her deeply by your suspicions, I have not the shadow of a doubt--how deeply, conceding her innocence, you can say better than I." "You will not encourage her in maintaining towards me her present attitude, Mrs.Loring ?" "Not if I see any hope of reconciliation.

But I must know more of your lives during the past few months.

I fear that you have wholly misunderstood your wife, and so alienated her that oblivion of the past is hopeless." "Think of the exposure and disgrace," said Mr.Dexter.
"I do think of it; and the thought sickens me." "You will surely advise her to return." "I can promise nothing sir.