She was faced with a choice; she felt it; she knew it.

She didn't want him to go.

Still, perhaps....

There was a vibration in the air.

Suddenly a sharp ring was heard.
Overpowered by a sudden impulse, Aylmer seized her impetuously by the shoulders, kissed her roughly and at random before she could stop him, and said incoherently: 'Edith! Good-bye.