A few minutes later the other tray came up and was carried into Mrs.Ransom's room.

The contrast in the way the two trays had been received struck him as showing the difference between the two women, especially after he had been given an opportunity, as he was later, of seeing the ferocious way in which the food brought to Anitra had been disposed of.
But I anticipate.

The latter tray had not yet been pushed again into the hall, and Mr.Ransom was still smoking his first cigar when he heard the lawyer's voice in the office below asking to have pen and ink placed in the small reception-room.

This recalled him to the real purpose of his wife's presence in the house, and also assured him that the opportunity would soon be given him for another glimpse of her before the evening was over.

It was also likely to be a full-face one, as she would have to advance several steps directly towards him before taking the turn leading to the front staircase.
He awaited the moment eagerly.