"Is anything the matter? Oh, my dear, don't cry."
She took out her handkerchief and tried to check her sobs. He rang the bell and when the boy came to the door went to it.
"If anyone asks for me say I'm out."
"Very good, sir."
The boy closed the door. Charlie sat on the arm of the chair and put his arm round Kitty's shoulders.
"Now, Kitty dear, tell me all about it."
"Walter wants a divorce," she said.
She felt the pressure of his arm on her shoulder cease. His body stiffened. There was a moment's silence, then Townsend rose from her chair and sat down once more in his.
"What exactly do you mean?" he said.
She looked at him quickly, for his voice was hoarse, and she saw that his face was dully red.