I can't bear to go away; but there is Sophie on the stairs." He had scarcely time to reach the hall before Sophie burst upon him with almost a shriek.
"What is this horrible affair, Richard?
What a terrible disgrace and scandal! we never shall get over it.

Will it get in the papers, do you think?
I am so ill--I have been in such a state since the news came.
Such a drive home as this has been! Oh, Richard, tell me all about it quickly.

Where is Pauline?
how does she bear it ?" making for my door.
Richard put out his hand and stopped her.

I had sprung up from the bed, and stood, trembling violently, at the further extremity of the room.

I do not know what I meant to do if she came in, for I was almost beside myself at that moment.
She was persistent, angry, agitated.