As it is, I am in the most painful uncertainty.

If she is here, I will feel, at least"-- "Have I not told you that she is not here, and that I know nothing of her," said Mrs.Jasper, angrily, interrupting the young man.

"This is insolent." "How soon do you expect Mr.Jasper home ?" inquired Claire.
"Not for several days," replied Mrs.Jasper.
"Days! Is he not in the city ?" "No, sir.

He left town yesterday." Claire struck his hands together in disappointment and grief.

This confirmed to him the lady's assertion that she knew nothing of Fanny.
In that assertion she had uttered the truth.
Sadly disappointed, and in far deeper distress of mind than when he entered the house, Edward Claire retired.