"It was unlike Helen," he said, "and it was a lie. I shall find out with
whom it originated. But you are a good fellow to take my word about it
at once. I am obliged to you, Treherne."
"Don't mention it, West. Men rarely lie to one another. On the other
hand women rarely speak the truth. What will my good cousin say to one
hundred and fifty pounds being paid for a 'cello?"
"It will be no business of hers," said Ronnie, angrily. "I can do as I
choose with my own earnings."
"I doubt it," smiled Aubrey Treherne.
"The man who married my cousin Helen, was bound to surrender his
independence and creep under her thumb. I am grateful to you for having
saved me from that fate. As no doubt she has told you, she refused me
shortly before she accepted you."
Ronald's start of surprise proved at once to Aubrey his complete
ignorance of the whole matter.
"I had no idea you were ever in love with my wife," he said.
"Nor was I, my dear fellow," sneered Aubrey Treherne. "Others, besides
yourself, were after your wife's money."
A sense of impotence seized Ronald, in nightmare grip. Indignant and
furious, he yet felt absolutely unable to contradict or to explain.
Suddenly he seemed to hear Helen's voice saying earnestly: "My cousin
Aubrey is not a good man, Ronnie; he is not a man you should trust."
This vivid remembrance of Helen, brought him to his senses.
"I prefer not to discuss my wife," he said, with quiet dignity; "nor my
relations with her.
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