Audiobook Dictation: “In the short time that passed…”

In the short time that passed before the day of the dinner, distressing circumstances strengthened his resolution. After months of separation, he received a visit from Herbert. Was this man--haggard, pallid, shabby, looking at him piteously with bloodshot eyes--the handsome, pleasant, prosperous brother whom he remembered? He could only point to a seat. And yet he spoke roughly; he looked like an angry man brought to bay. "I seem to frighten you," he said. "You distress me, Herbert, more than words can say." "Give me a glass of wine. I've been walking--I don't know where. A long distance; I'm dead beat."