"I did not intend to refer to that unfortunate affair," said Nellie, with sympathy.
"It pains me to think of it, but I shall be glad to have you understand it."
"It was a great surprise to me, Fred, and being right here seemed awful, but since receiving your letter I have suspected Matthew De Vere might have had something to do with it."
"Have you thought so?"
"Yes; was I right?"
"Yes, Nellie, you were; but I did wrong in following him."
"Will you not tell me all about it?"
Fred went over the matter of his intoxication, and explained everything truthfully, while Nellie listened with interest and astonishment.