The strongest wish in her being at this moment was to be able to do something for the unhappy people--to see them--to assure them--to help them. It was dreadful to be so far away from them. But Mr. Flushing shook his head; he did not think that now--later perhaps one might be able to help. Here Mrs. Flushing rose stiffly, turned her back to them, and walked to the dressing-room opposite. As she walked, they could see her breast slowly rise and slowly fall.