This question he put in a softened tone, conveying as much at least of the ludicrous as the pathetic.

There was a trace of anguish in the softened tone; yet confidence was the dominating note.

"You don't have to be afraid of me," he said finally in a softened tone.

To some critics, the softened tone is evidence that Mr. Mabus's record so far has more to do with image than results.

"I don't mean to be rude," I said in a softened tone.

He perceived this, and suddenly addressed himself to her in softened tones which bore no trace of their previous loudness.

In a softened tone she declared herself not at all offended; but he continued to apologise for about a quarter of an hour.

"The truth, my dear," said Limbeck in a softened tone.

In a softened tone, she said, "We may as well let him speak, David.

It represents a despondent scene and uses softened tones.