“From what I’ve heard,” said Mr. Carteret, “your private affairs are in a tangle.”
“So you’ve heard?” said Evanston.
“Yes, I have heard a good many things which are probably not so. I want to know the facts.”
Somewhat to his surprise, Evanston made no show of resentment. “The facts are simple,” he said. “I’m tired of this thing, and I’m going to put an end to it.”
“I’ve heard that,” said Mr. Carteret; “but if you don’t mind telling me, I’d like to know why. I like you, Frank,” he added; “I like your wife; I like your children—I don’t want to see you bust up.”
“You are very good, Carty,” said Evanston, “but nothing can be done about it. It’s a long story, with rights and wrongs on both sides; but at the beginning it was my fault, and I am ready to pay for it.”
“What do you mean by ‘your fault at the beginning’?” asked Mr. Carteret.
“I married her,” said Evanston.
“Well, didn’t you want to?” asked Mr. Carteret.