His important and irascible nature was oddly disturbed by this awkwardly obstinate old woman stalking at his side in her black clothes.

Feminine opposition, even in slight matters, was wont to aggravate him, but in no such degree as this.

He found it hard to recover his usual courtesy of manner, and indeed scarcely spoke a word during the walk.

He could not himself understand his discomposure.

But Mrs.Field did not seem to notice.