I thought I'd better tell you that first." She held out her hand without speaking.
Jack gave it her, and addressed himself carefully to his cigarette.

He didn't like this kind of thing at all, he wished Frank wouldn't give him unpleasant commissions.

But, of course, it had to be done.

He looked out at the lawn and the sleepy house, but was aware of nothing except the girl beside him in her white dress and the letter in her hands.

When she had finished it, she turned back and read it again.