Clifford was not inwardly surprised to get this letter. Inwardly, he had known for a long time she was leaving him. But he had absolutely refused any outward admission of it. Therefore, outwardly, it came as the most terrible blow and shock to him. He had kept the surface of his confidence in her quite serene.
And that is how we are. By strength of will we cut off our inner intuitive knowledge from admitted consciousness. This causes a state of dread, or apprehension, which makes the blow ten times worse when it does fall.
Clifford was like a hysterical child. He gave Mrs. Bolton a terrible shock, sitting up in bed ghastly and blank.
"Why, Sir Clifford, whatever's the matter?"
No answer! She was terrified lest he had had a stroke. She hurried and felt his face, took his pulse.
"Is there a pain? Do try and tell me where it hurts you. Do tell me!"
No answer!
"Oh dear, oh dear! Then I'll telephone to Sheffield for Dr. Carrington, and Dr. Lecky may as well run round straight away."
She was moving to the door, when he said in a hollow tone:
"No!"