She resolved that of all things she would not weep, that she would remain dignified and speak calmly, like one who, whatever rights she might possess, preferred to appeal to reason only.

And she was well pleased with the courage that she found within her.

Whilst thinking of what she should say to dissuade Gerard from a marriage which to her mind would prove both a calamity and a blunder, she fancied herself very calm, indeed almost resigned to whatsoever might happen.
But all at once she started and began to tremble.

Gerard was entering the room.
"What! are you here the first, my dear ?" he exclaimed.

"I thought that I myself was ten minutes before the time! And you've ordered some tea and are waiting for me!" He forced a smile as he spoke, striving to display the same delight at seeing her as he had shown in the early golden days of their passion.