Mr.Langenau happened to be on the side by me: once when the carriage had leaned suddenly, he had put his hand upon it, and had touched, without intending it, my arm.
"I beg your pardon," he had said, and that was all he had said to me; and I had felt very grateful that Benny had been so inclined to talk.

I trusted that nobody would speak to me, for my voice would never be steady and even again, I was sure, when he was by to listen to it.
Now, however, he spoke to me: commonplace words, the same almost that every one in the house had addressed to me that morning, but how differently they sounded.
"I am sorry that you are not well to-day, Miss d'Estree." Mrs.Hollenbeck at this moment began to find some fault with Benny's gloves, and leaning down, talked very obligingly and earnestly with him, while she fastened the gloves upon his hands.
Mr.Langenau took the occasion, as it was intended he should take it, and said rather low, "You will not refuse to see me a few moments this evening, that I may explain something to you ?" I think he was disappointed that I did not answer him, only turned away my head.

But I don't know in truth what other answer he had any right to ask.

He did not attempt to speak again, but as we turned into the village, said, "Good-morning, I must leave you.

Good-bye, Benny, since I have neither clothes nor conscience fit for church." Sophie laughed, and said, at least she hoped he would be home for dinner.