"To tell you the truth, Everard, I know nothing about you. I have no wish to revive disagreeable memories, and I think it quite possible that you may be worthy of respect."
"So far, so good. Now, in justice, please answer me another question. How have you spoken of me to Miss Nunn?"
"How can it matter?"
"It matters a good deal. Have you told her any scandal about me?"
"Yes, I have."
Everard looked at her with surprise.
"I spoke to Miss Nunn about you," she continued, "before I thought of your ever coming here. Frankly, I used you as an illustration of the evils I abominate."
"You are a courageous and plain-spoken woman, cousin Mary," said Everard, laughing a little. Couldn't you have found some other example?"
There was no reply.
"So," he proceeded, "Miss Nunn regards me as a proved scoundrel?"
