“Well, you see, I was so ill and down and out and all that, after that affair, that I did what I have never done before: I forced myself to the enjoyment of outdoor life—and I liked it; and it agreed with me wonderfully.â€�
“Just what day was it that you arrived in New York, Mr. Lynne? There was a mention of it in the paper, but it has escaped me.�
“The day before yesterday.�
“Only that.�
“But in the morning, I suppose?�
“No. I arrived on the train that gets in at the Pennsylvania Station at nine in the evening.�
“And now, after being parted from Edythe so long a time, this terrible thing has happened to you. It is terrible, Mr. Lynne.�
“Ah, sir, it is more than that; it is unbearable. I am compelling myself to keep up, so please let’s not talk about that.�
“No, indeed, we will not, just at present. This engagement of yours with the lady of your choice must have been a matter of long standing, then. At least, we can find something that is pleasant to talk about in that subject.�