He had only taken the time to assure himself of its truth by a second telegram, and had hastened to forestall any less careful, less tender friend in bearing the sad message.

• 他在收到第二封电报后才相信这消息是确切的，便赶紧行动以防有朋友听到这一噩耗后做出轻率、鲁莽的事来。