I went home to my own room, sat down, and sank into thought. My heart
was beating violently. I read Acia’s note through several times. I
looked at my watch; it was not yet twelve o’clock.
The door opened, Gagin walked in.
His face was overcast. He seized my hand and pressed it warmly. He
seemed very much agitated.
‘What is the matter?’ I asked.
Gagin took a chair and sat down opposite me. ‘Three days ago,’ he began
with a rather forced smile, and hesitating, ‘I surprised you by what I
told you; to-day I am going to surprise you more. With any other man
I could not, most likely, bring myself … so directly.… But you’re an
honourable man, you’re my friend, aren’t you? Listen--my sister, Acia,
is in love with you.’