To find this suddenly gone, in a moment, without the slightest preparation, was extremely embarrassing.

She covered her eyes with one hand for a moment to collect her thoughts and to try and realise the extent of the disaster.

Nicholas mistook the gesture.
"You will never forgive me, I know.

I do not deserve that you should.
But I will do all in my power to repair the evil.

I will go to Siberia if they will consider your rights to the estate." Margaret withdrew her hand, and looked earnestly at the young man.
"Forgive you ?" said she.