“Ernest,” said Mr. Hillston kindly, “what is the matter with you? You have not been like yourself for two or three days. You seem to be in deep trouble.”
“So I am, Mr. Hillston. I am wading through the ‘deep waters’ about which you sing.”
“I knew there was something the matter. Is it anything you can tell? Sometimes it is a great relief to unbosom ourselves to a kind friend, who can sympathize with us, if nothing more.”
“I do not mind telling you, Mr. Hillston, though I cannot see that it will do any good.”
“You do not know that. I have lived a long time in this world, and have, at least, tried to comfort a great many people under clouds of sorrow. Probably I might be able to give you some advice which would be useful.”
“Well, you know I was engaged to be married to Clara Vanclure?”
“Yes; you told me that.”
“She has broken the engagement.”
“For what reason?”
“I suspect that Comston has deceived her.”