There was a moment's pause. Susannah poured out the tea; the pleasant sound of the cups as they touched one another and the whispering of her silks filled the silence.
Then Miss Boyle spoke again, with an effort.
"My dear," she said pleadingly, "you must forgive me for coming to you. Had I had anyone else—But in town I know none, and I dare not go to my father or to—the persons concerned."
Miss Chressham set down the cup she held.
"Why, what is the matter?" she asked finally, startled at the other's tone.
Selina Boyle clasped her hands on her lap.
"What will you think of me?" she cried. "Do not let me entirely lose your good opinion; I am sufficiently distressed and humbled."
"I implore you to enlighten me," answered Miss Chressham. "You agitate me, Selina."
Miss Boyle opened her reticule and drew out a copy of the Gazette.
"This was found by my maid this morning. What am I to do? What am I to do, Susannah?" She unfolded the paper and pointed to a paragraph on the front page. "Read it," she said in a voice almost inaudible.