What could be the matter?
The Colonel had parted from him, apparently, in his usual state of spirits.

He must have been taken suddenly ill.

Under this impression, he opened the door of communication very gently, and perceived the Colonel, in his nightgown, seated by a table, on which lay a letter and a picture.

He raised his head hastily, as Edward stood uncertain whether to advance or retire, and Waverley perceived that his cheeks were stained with tears.
As if ashamed at being found giving way to such emotion, Colonel Talbot rose with apparent displeasure, and said, with some sternness, 'I think, Mr.Waverley, my own apartment, and the hour, might have secured even a prisoner against'-- 'Do not say INTRUSION, Colonel Talbot; I heard you breathe hard, and feared you were ill; that alone could have induced me to break in upon you.' 'I am well,' said the Colonel, 'perfectly well.' 'But you are distressed,' said Edward: 'is there anything can be done ?' 'Nothing, Mr.Waverley: I was only thinking of home, and of some unpleasant occurrences there.' 'Good God, my uncle!' exclaimed Waverley.
'No,--it is a grief entirely my own.

I am ashamed you should have seen it disarm me so much; but it must have its course at times, that it may be at others more decently supported.