But why do I trouble you with my poor little personal affairs?
I humbly beg your pardon." His eyes accompanied this modest apology with a look of uneasy anticipation: he evidently expected to be asked to explain himself.
Events had followed her instructions to Mr.Null, which left Mrs.
Gallilee in need of employing her music-master's services.

She felt the necessity of exerting herself; and did it--with an effort.
"You have no reason, I hope, to complain of your pupils ?" she said.
"At this time of year, madam, I have no pupils.

They are all out of town." She was too deeply preoccupied by her own affairs to trouble herself any further.

The direct way was the easy way.

She said wearily, "Well, what is it ?" He answered in plain terms, this time.
"A bitter humiliation, Mrs.Gallilee! I have been made to regret that I asked you to honour me by accepting the dedication of my Song.