Finally, he announced to his family that he must leave them, to be gone at least two or three months.

The intelligence came with a shock that partially aroused Fanny from the lethargic state into which she had fallen.

Mrs.Markland made only a feeble, tearful opposition.

Upon her mind had settled a brooding apprehension of trouble in the future, and every changing aspect in the progression of events but confirmed her fears.
That her husband's mind had become deeply disturbed Mrs.Markland saw but too clearly; and that this disturbance increased daily, she also saw.

Of the causes she had no definite information; but it was not difficult to infer that they involved serious disappointments in regard to the brilliant schemes which had so captivated his imagination.