"Of course you know what he has written?"
Mallender nodded. He felt as if he had suddenly become old, and responsible.
"About the Eurasian woman, and the children, and his—double life. Is it true?"
In spite of his own absolutely clear conscience, the young man coloured, and looked guiltily shame-faced as he answered:
"I believe it is, I came into his house by accident, and discovered his secret. He asked me to stay on for a time, and I've been with him a week or two. He only got your letter a couple of hours ago."
"Well," setting down the tumbler with a gesture of decision, "there is only one thing for me to do."
"To forgive him?" was the bold suggestion.
"Captain Mallender, for what do you take me?" she demanded with curt scorn.
"For a good, kind woman."
"A good—idiot!" she retorted fiercely.