“I remember everything.” He bent closer.
“I never cared for any woman in all my life but you. It’s cursed hard luck.” He sighed. “You know I’m married?” he asked abruptly.
“Oh yes!” The words came stiffly.
His eyes searched her white face jealously.
“You don’t seem to care. I’ve often wondered if you knew––and if you minded!” He sat staring before him, and there was a little smile in his eyes. “We do things in style now, I can tell you,” he said with sudden change of voice. “She’s as rich as you please, and she likes to spend her money.” Another silence.
“I hope you’ll be happy,” Esther said faintly.
Afterwards she wondered what made her say it, seeing that she did not care in the very least if he were happy or not; why should she care? This man was a stranger to her.
He laughed ruefully.
“Oh, I suppose we shall,” he said. “She’s not a bad sort, and she lets me alone....” He roused himself suddenly and bent closer to her. “Lallie––you’ll let me see you again. There’s no reason why we can’t be––friends––just because I’m married–––” He tried to take her hand, but now she repulsed him, though very gently.