He was stung by this repulse, and stood mortifying himself by thinking of it until he was disturbed by the entrance of a maid-servant.

Learning from her that Sir Charles was in the billiard room, he joined him there, and asked him carelessly if he had heard the news.
"About Miss Wylie ?" said Sir Charles.

"Yes, I should think so.

I believe the whole country knows it, though they have not been engaged three hours.

Have you seen these ?" And he pushed a couple of newspapers across the table.
Erskine had to make several efforts before he could read.