“A divorce! A DIVORCE! Good heavens above!”
“Yes, sir,” triumphantly, “a divorce from the man she was trapped into marrying and who deserted her. You did desert her, you can't deny that. So long as she remains your wife, even in name, she is liable to persecution from you. She understands this. She and I are to see a lawyer at once. That is why I am here.”
Seth was completely overwhelmed. A divorce! A case for the papers to print, and all of Ostable county to read!
“I—I—I—” he stammered, and then added weakly, “I don't believe it. She wouldn't . . . There ain't no lawyer here.”
“Then we shall seek the one nearest here. Emeline understands. I 'phoned her this morning.”
“Was it YOU that 'phoned?”
“It was. Now—er—Atkins, I am disposed to be as considerate of your welfare as possible. I know that any publicity in this matter might prejudice you in the eyes of your—of the government officials. I shall not seek publicity, solely on your account. The divorce will be obtained privately, provided—PROVIDED you remain out of sight and do not interfere. I warn you, therefore, not to make trouble or to attempt to see my sister again. If you do—well, if you do, the consequences will be unpleasant for you. Do you understand?”
Seth understood, or thought he did. He groaned and leaned heavily against a tree trunk.
“You understand, do you?” repeated Bennie D. “I see that you do. Very good then. I have nothing more to say. I advise that you remain—er—in seclusion for the next few days. Good-by.”
He gave a farewell glance at the crushed figure leaning against the tree. Then he turned on his heel and walked off.