In her distraction she sniffed audibly.

A tear ran down either side of her pink shiny nose and dropped on the folds of shepherd's-plaid silk veiling her plump bosom.
For, with some obscure purpose of living up to her self-imposed indispensability, Miss Bilson was distinctly dressy at this period, wearing her best summer gown on every possible occasion and tucking a bunch of roses or carnations archly in her waist-belt.
"Do you think it kind to insist so much on my passing forgetfulness ?" she quavered.

"The habit of criticizing and cavilling at whatever I say grows on you, Damaris, and it so increases the difficulties of my position.

I know I am sensitive, but that is the result of my affection for you.

I care so deeply, and you are not responsive.