"Wax candles? It would take too long. Show the gentleman into this front room," said the governor-elect.
The servant went to do his bidding.
Then Rothsay turned to Cora, saying:
"I must see this man, dear, late as it is! I will bid you good night now. God bless you, dear."
And without even a farewell kiss, Rothsay passed out.
And Cora did not know that he had gone for good.
She rang for her maid and retired to her room, there to pass a sleepless, anxious, remorseful night.
What would be the result of her confession to her husband? She dared not to conjecture.
He had been gentle, tender, most considerate, and most charitable to her weakness, never speaking of his own wrongs, never reproaching her for inconstancy.
He had said, in effect, that he would come to an understanding with her later, when they both should be stronger.