"Less strange than sad," was replied. "I don't wonder you saw the color go out of Mrs. Abercrombie's face."
"Why so? What does it mean?"
"It means sorrow and heartbreak."
"You surprise and pain me. I thought of the lady by his side, not of the glass of wine in his hand."
The two men left the crowded supper-room in order to be more alone.
"You know something of the general's life and habits?"
"Yes."
"He has not been intemperate, I hope?"
"Yes."
"Oh, I am pained to hear you say so."