I have felt the shock.

I do not look like myself--I do not feel like myself; it was enough--" Here real emotion seized me and I almost broke down.

I was in a position much more dreadful than any they could imagine or should be allowed to.
Their silence led me to examine their faces.

Hexford's mouth had settled into a stiff, straight line and the other man's wore a cynical smile I did not like.

At this presage of the difficulties awaiting me, I felt one strand of the rope sustaining me above this yawning gulf of shame and ignominy crack and give way.