How do Mrs. Sappleton and Mr. Nuttel feel during their conversation?

Question

Mrs. Sappleton and Mr. Nuttel are more interested in the window than in each other.

Mrs. Sappleton is bored by her company, whereas Mr. Nuttel feels distressed.

Mrs. Sappleton pretends the tragedy never occurred, and Mr. Nuttel comforts her.

Mrs. Sappleton is hungry and unable to pay attention, which offends Mr. Nuttel.

Answer 1

The best interpretation of the feelings during the conversation between Mrs. Sappleton and Mr. Nuttel is that Mrs. Sappleton is bored by her company, whereas Mr. Nuttel feels distressed.

Mrs. Sappleton is preoccupied with the idea of her husband and brothers returning from their hunting trip, which indicates her indifference to Mr. Nuttel's nervousness and distress regarding his own situation. Meanwhile, Mr. Nuttel is anxious and uncomfortable due to his unfamiliarity with the Sappleton family and the story he believes he is involved in. Their interaction is marked by this contrast in their emotional states.