His face looked prematurely old and careworn in the red light of the fire.

Something had plainly happened to sadden and to disappoint him since they had last met.
"I willingly offer you all the time that I have at my own command," Mercy replied.

"Does what you have to tell me relate to Lady Janet ?" He gave her no direct reply.

"What I have to tell you of Lady Janet," he said, gravely, "is soon told.

So far as she is concerned you have nothing more to dread.