She had attempted to render a service and had been rudely rebuffed.

She slipped into her place beside Nora, who was dozing, and had not missed her.

Mrs.Gibson, too, had not marked her absence.
"Where were you, Grace ?" said Miriam curiously.

"I opened my eyes and you were gone.

What's the matter?
You look ready to cry." "I am," replied Grace.