Arthur did not linger long.
Ruth occupied the only chair, and having done his duty, he went outside and stood by the gate, the centre of seven marvelling Silvas, who watched him as they would have watched a curiosity in a side-show.

All about the carriage were gathered the children from a dozen blocks, waiting and eager for some tragic and terrible denouement.

Carriages were seen on their street only for weddings and funerals.

Here was neither marriage nor death: therefore, it was something transcending experience and well worth waiting for.
Martin had been wild to see Ruth.

His was essentially a love-nature, and he possessed more than the average man's need for sympathy.