Jessy, as she was quite aware, was playing a dangerous game; one that might afterward be exposed. The latter possibility, however, was of less account, for detection would come too late if she were successful. She was acquainted with the salient points of Evelyn's character.
"They're consistent, if not always very logical," she concluded after a pause. "One endeavors to make allowances for men of that description."
Something in her tone roused Evelyn to sudden imperious anger. It was intolerable that this woman should offer excuses for Vane.
"What particular allowances do you feel it needful to make in Mr. Vane's case?" she asked haughtily.
Now that she was faced by the direct question, Jessy hesitated. As a rule, she was subtle, but she could be ruthlessly frank, and she was possessed by a passionate hatred of the girl beside her.
"You have forced me to an explanation," she smiled. "The fact is that while he has a room at the hotel he has an—establishment—in a different neighborhood. Unfortunately such places are a feature of some western towns."
It was a shock to Evelyn; one that she found hard to face; though she was not convinced. The last piece of information agreed with something Mrs. Nairn had told her; but, although she had on one occasion had the testimony of her eyes in support of it, Jessy's first statement seemed incredible.
"It's impossible!"
Jessy smiled in a bitter manner.
"It's unpleasant, but it can't be denied. He undoubtedly pays the rent of a shack in the neighborhood I mentioned."