‘Will you leave me alone?’ exclaimed her husband, clinching his hand, and striking it on the table.
The tears came into Ruth’s eyes.
‘Gertie dear,’ she said, ‘go up and sit with mamma a little, will you?’
Gertie took the hint and went out, her cheeks scarlet and her lip quivering.
‘Edward, what is the matter with you?’ Ruth then said. ‘I never heard you speak like this before! Are you mad?’
‘No, I’m just coming to my senses,’ answered her husband; ringing the bell violently.
The servant entered.
‘Bring me the time-table.’
The servant went into the study and brought the local time-table. The squire ran his finger down it.
‘There’s a train to town at 9.30. Pack my portmanteau at once.’