This is an example of a dramatic irony because the readers
are aware of something that a character in a literary work does not know. Josephine
is very concerned that her sister is suffering from powerful grief, but the
reader knows that Mrs. Mallard (Louise) really feels a sense of relief.
I think that cringe means that a response to embarrasement. But right now in this text I think this word means that they didn't want that to happen. Or they thought that was not good. Hopefully it's right. I mean that's just my opinion. :D