These sources supplied me with slender consolation.

There was no security but in his absence.

When I looked at myself, when I reflected on the hour and the place, I was overpowered by horror and dejection.
He was silent, museful, and inattentive to my situation, yet made no motion to depart.

I was silent in my turn.

What could I say?
I was confident that reason in this contest would be impotent.