Chantrey's return would bring about a reformation in his wife had
grown faint in her heart, for during the last few months the sin had
taken deeper and deeper root; and now, the day only before she expected
him, she had not had strength to resist the temptation to it. Sophy had
been crying hysterically, and trembling at the thought of meeting him as
she was; and she had made Ann promise to break to him gently the
confession she would otherwise be compelled to make herself. Ann Holland
sat opposite to him, with downcast eyes, and a face almost heart-broken
by the shame and sorrow she foresaw for him.
"She is asleep," he said, repeating her words in a lowered voice, as if
he was afraid of disturbing her.
"Yes," she answered.
"It is strange," he said, after a short pause; "strange she can sleep
now. Has she been ill? Sophy always assured me she was quite well and
strong. It is strange she can sleep when she knows I am here."
"She was very ill and low after you went, sir," she replied; "it was
like as if her heart was broken, parting with you and Master Charlie
both together.
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