Even in his unconsciousness he looked as though he were warding off the horror of the sight which had stricken him to the ground.
In the presence of domestic calamity human nature betrays its inherent weakness.

At such times the artificial outer covering of civilization falls away, and the soul stands forth, stark, primitive, forlorn, and cries aloud.

The strain of the tremendous tragedy which had entered his house, swift-footed and silent, was too much for Sir Philip.

He sank on his knees by the side of his unconscious son, whimpering like a child--a weak and helpless old man.

There was no trace of the dignity of the Herediths or pride of race in the wrinkled face, now distorted with the pitiful grin of senility, as Sir Philip crouched over his son, stroking his face with feeble fingers.
One or two of the women in the passage became hysterical.