Then Mr.Caswall's efforts at staring became intensified, and poor Lilla's nervousness grew greater.

Mimi, seeing that her cousin was distressed, came close to her, as if to comfort or strengthen her with the consciousness of her presence.

This evidently made a difficulty for Mr.
Caswall, for his efforts, without appearing to get feebler, seemed less effective.

This continued for a little while, to the gain of both Lilla and Mimi.

Then there was a diversion.