She tried to make the best of it, but it was impossible to be entirely unaffected by the depressing chill of the atmosphere.

Conversation turned upon Mrs.Ermsted, regarding whom the report had gone forth that she was very seriously ill.

Lady Harriet sought to probe Stella upon the subject and was plainly offended when she pleaded ignorance.

She also tried to extract Monck's opinion of poor Captain Ermsted's murder.

Had it been committed by a mere _budmash_ for the sake of robbery, or did he consider that any political significance was attached to it?
Monck drily expressed the opinion that something might be said for either theory.