to be one--though I don't want to say anything against Mrs. Eveleth.
When Bienville refused to put an end to him, he evidently decided to do
it himself. His family know nothing about that, so please don't let it
slip out if you see Diane. With her notions, the husband fallen in her
cause has perished on the field of honor; and if that's any comfort to
her, let her keep it. As for Bienville, he's joined young Persigny, the
explorer, in South America. By the time he returns the affair will have
been forgotten. He's a nice young fellow, and it's a thousand pities he
should have fallen into the net of a woman like Mrs. Eveleth. I don't
want to say anything against her, you understand--"

"Oh, quite!"

"But--"

Mr. Grimston pronounced the word with a hard-drawn breath, and presented
the appearance of a man who restrains himself. He was still endeavoring
to maintain this attitude of repression when a discreet tap on the door
called from Mr. van Tromp a gruff "Come in." A young man entered with a
card.

"She's here," the banker grunted, reading the name.

Mr. Grimston shot up again.

"Better let me see her," he insisted, in a warning tone.

"No, no. I'll have a look at her myself. Bring the lady in," he added,
to the young man in waiting.