Both ladies were kneeling before a large trunk, surrounded by heaps of clothes, shoes, books and boxes, and a hundred trifles besides.

When the visitors arrived, they immediately stood before the open door of the room used for packing.
Mrs.Maxa's first impulse was to withdraw with an excuse, but the ladies had jumped up already and most cordially greeted their kind friend, Mr Falcon, whom they called their helper and saviour in all difficulties.
They received his sister joyfully, too, for they had been most eager to know her.

Both ladies regretted that their meeting had to take place in a moment when their house appeared in its most unfavorable light.

Mrs.
Maxa assured them, however, that she understood the preparations for their impending trip and said that she would not disturb them longer than was necessary.

She intended, therefore, to voice her request immediately.