Mr.
Delaplaine, who was a man of honour expecting it in others, made up his mind that something decisive must soon be said; while Kate began greatly to fear that something decisive might soon be said.

She was in a difficult position.

She was not engaged to Martin Newcombe, but had believed she might be.

The whole affair involved a question which she did not want to consider.

And still the captain came every day, generally in the afternoon or evening.
But one morning he made his appearance, coming to the house quite abruptly.
"I am glad to find you by yourself," said he, "for I have some awkward news." Kate looked at him surprised.
"I have just been ordered on duty," he continued, "and the order is most unwelcome.