Classic Audiobook Collection - The Odd Women by George Gissing ~ Full Audiobook [drama]

Starting point is 00:00:00 The Odd Women By George Gissing Chapter 1 The Fold and the Shepherd So to-morrow Alice said Dr. Madden as he walked with his eldest daughter on the coast-downs by Clevedon

Starting point is 00:00:16 I shall take steps for insuring my life for a thousand pounds It was the outcome of a long and intimate conversation Alice Madden, aged nineteen, a plain, shy, gentle-mannered girl, short of stature, and in movement something less than graceful, wore a pleased look as she glanced at her father's face, and then turned her eyes across the blue channel to the Welsh hills. She was flattered by the confidence reposed in her. For Dr. Madden,

Starting point is 00:00:50 reticent by nature, had never been known to speak in the domestic circle about his pecuniary affairs. He seemed to be the kind of man who would inspire his children with affection, grave but benign, amiably diffident, with a hint of lurking mirthfulness about his eyes and lips. And today he was in the best of humours. Professional prospects, as he had just explained to Alice, were more encouraging than hitherto. For twenty years he had practiced medicine at Cleveland, but with such trifling emolument that the needs of his large family left him scarce a margin over expenditure. Now, at the age of forty-nine—it was eighteen seventy-two, he looked forward with a larger hope. Might he not reasonably count on ten or fifteen more years of activity?

Starting point is 00:01:41 Clevedon was growing in repute as a seaside resort. New houses were rising. Assuredly his practised would continue to extend. "'I don't think girls ought to be troubled about this kind of thing,' he added a apologetically. Let men grapple with the world, for as the old hymn says, tis their nature too. I should grieve indeed if I thought my girls would ever have to distress themselves about money matters. But I find I have got into the habit, Alice, of talking to you very much as I should talk with

Starting point is 00:02:18 your dear mother, if she were with us. Mrs. Madden, having given birth to six daughters, had fulfilled her function in in this wonderful world. For two years she had been resting in the old churchyard that looks upon the Severn Sea. Father and daughter sighed as they recalled her memory. A sweet, calm, unpretending woman, admirable in the domesticities, in speech and thought distinguished by a native refinement which in the most fastidious eyes would have established her claim to the title of Lady. She had known but little repose, and secret anxieties told upon her countenance, long before the final collapse of health.

Starting point is 00:03:01 And yet, pursued the doctor, doctor only by courtesy, when he had stooped to pluck and examine a flower. I made a point of never discussing these matters with her. As no doubt you guess, life has been rather an uphill journey with us. But the home must be guarded against sordid cares to the last possible moment. Nothing upsets me more than the sight of those poor homes where wife and children are obliged to talk from morning to night of how the sorry earning shall be laid out. No, no. Women, old or young, should never have to think about money.

Starting point is 00:03:42 The magnificent summer sunshine, and the western breeze that tasted of ocean, heightened his natural cheeriness. Dr. Madden fell into a familiar strain of prescience. There will come a day, Alice, when neither man nor woman is troubled with such sordid care. Not yet a while. No, no. But the day will come. Human beings are not destined to struggle for ever like beasts of prey. Give them time.

Starting point is 00:04:13 Let civilisation grow. You know what our poet says. There the common sense of most shall hold a fretful realm in awe. He quoted the couplet with a subdued fervor which characterized the man and explained his worldly lot. Elkanah Madden should never have entered the medical profession. Mere humanitarianism had prompted the choice in his dreamy youth. He became an empiric, nothing more. Our poet, said the doctor, Clevedon was chiefly interesting to him for its literary associations.

Starting point is 00:04:50 Tennisin he worshipped. He never passed Coleridge's cottage without bowing and spirit. From the contact of coarse actualities, his nature shrank. When he and Alice returned from their walk, it was the hour of family tea. A guest was present this afternoon. The eight persons who sat down to table were as many as the little parlor could comfortably contain. Of the sisters, next in age to Alice came Virginia. A pretty, but delicate girl of seventeen. Gertrude, Martha and Isabel, ranging from fourteen to ten, had no physical charm but that of youthfulness.

Starting point is 00:05:30 Isabel surpassed her eldest sister in downright plainness of feature. The youngest, Monica, was a bonny little maiden only just five years old, dark and bright-eyed. The parents had omitted no care in shepherding their fold. Partly at home and partly in local schools, the young little bit of the young little. Ladies had received instructions suitable to their breeding, and the elder ones were disposed to better this education by private study. The atmosphere of the house was intellectual. Books, especially the poets, lay in every room.

Starting point is 00:06:05 But it never occurred to Dr. Madden that his daughters would do well to study with a professional object. In hours of melancholy he, of course, dreaded the risks of life, and resolved always with postponement to make some practical provision for his family. In educating them as well as circumstances allowed, he conceived that he was doing the next best thing to saving money. For, if a fatality befell, teaching would always be their resource. The thought, however, of his girls having to work for money was so utterly repulsive to him that he could never seriously dwell upon it. A vague piety supported his courage. Providence would not deal harshly with him and his

Starting point is 00:06:47 dear ones. He enjoyed excellent health, his practice decidedly improved. The one duty clearly before him was to set an example of righteous life, and to develop the girl's minds, in every proper direction. For, as to training them for any path, save those trodden by English ladies of the familiar type, he could not have dreamt of any such thing. Dr. Madden's hopes for the race were inseparable from a maintenance of morals and conventions, such as the average man assumes in his estimate of women. The guest at table was a young girl named Rhoda Nunn. Tall, thin, eager-looking, but with promise of bodily vigour, she was singled at a glance as no member of the Madden family. Her immaturity—15, she looked two years older—appeared in nervous restlessness, and in her manner

Starting point is 00:07:41 of speaking, childish at times in the hustling of inconsequent thoughts, yet striving to imitate the talk of her seniors. She had a good head, in both senses of the phrase, might or might not develop a certain beauty, but would assuredly put forth the fruits of intellect. Her mother, an invalid, was spending the summer months at Clevedon, with Dr. Madden for a medical advisor, and in this way the girl became friendly with the Madden household. It's a little younger members she treated rather condescendingly, childish things she had long ago put away, and her sole pleasure was an intellectual talk. With a frankness peculiar to her, indicative of pride, Miss Nunn let it be known that she would have to earn her living, probably as a school-teacher.

Starting point is 00:08:30 Study for examinations preoccupied most of her day, and her hours of leisure were frequently spent either at the Maddens or with a family named Smithson. People, these latter, for she had a profound and somewhat mysterious admiration. Mr. Smithson, a widower with a consumptive daughter, was a harsh-featured, rough-voiced man of about five-and-thirty, secretly much disliked by Dr. Madden because of his aggressive radicalism. If women's observation could be trusted, Rhoda none had simply fallen in love with him, had made him, perhaps unconsciously, the object of her earliest passion. Alice and Virginia commented. on the fact in their private colloquy with a shamefaced amusement. They feared that it spoke

Starting point is 00:09:17 ill for the young lady's breeding. Nonetheless, they thought Rhoda a remarkable person, and listened to her utterances respectfully. "'And what is your latest paradox, Miss Nunn?' inquired the doctor, with grave facetiousness, when he had looked round the young faces at his board. "'Really, I forget, doctor.' "'Oh, but I wanted to ask you.' Do you think women ought to sit in Parliament?" "'Why, no,' was the response, as if after due consideration. "'If they are there at all, they ought to stand.'

Starting point is 00:09:54 "'Oh, I can't get you to talk seriously,' rejoined Rhoda, with an air of vexation, whilst the others were good-naturedly laughing. Mr. Smithson thinks there ought to be female members of Parliament.' "'Does he?' Have the girls told you that there's a nightingale in Mr. Williams' orchard?' It was always thus. Dr. Madden did not care to discuss even playfully the radical notions which Rhoda got from her objectionable friend.

Starting point is 00:10:24 His daughters would not have ventured to express an opinion on such topics when he was present. Apart with Miss Nunn, they betrayed a timid interest in whatever proposition she advanced, but no gleam of originality distinguished their arguments. After tea the little company fell into groups, some out of doors beneath the apple-trees, others near the piano at which Virginia was playing Mendelsohn. Monica ran about among them with her five-year-old prattle, ever watched by her father, who lounged in a canvas chair against the sunny ivied wall, pipe in mouth. Dr. Madden was thinking how happy they made him,

Starting point is 00:11:02 these kind, gentle girls, how his love for them seemed to ripen with every son. What a delightful old age his would be, when some were married and had children of their own, and the others tended him—they whom he had tended. Virginia would probably be sought in marriage. She had good looks, a graceful demeanour, a bright understanding. Gertrude also, perhaps—and little Monica? Ah, little Monica! She would be the beauty of the family. When Monica had grown up, it would be time for him to retire from practice. By then he would doubtless have saved money. He must find more society for them. They had always been too much alone, went their shyness

Starting point is 00:11:50 among strangers, if their mother had but lived. "'Rodoo wishes you to read as something, father,' said his eldest girl, who had approached whilst he was lost in dream. He often read aloud to them from the poets, Coleridge and Tennyson by preference. Little persuasion was needed. Alice brought the volume, and he selected the lotus-eaters. The girls grouped themselves about him, delighted to listen. Many an hour of summer evening had they thus spent, none more peaceful than the present. The reader's cadenced voice blended with the song of a thrush. "'Let us alone. Time driveth onward fast, and in a little while our lips are dumb. Let us alone. What is it that will last? All things are taken from us."

Starting point is 00:12:45 There came an interruption—hurried, peremptory. A farmer over at Kingston Seymour had been seized with alarming illness. The doctor must come at once. Very sorry, girls. Tell James to put the horse in, sharp as he can. In ten minutes Dr. Madden was driving at full speed, alone in his dog-cocked. part, towards the scene of duty. About seven o'clock, Rhoda Nunn took leave, remarking with her usual directness, that before going home she would walk along the sea-front, in the hope of a meeting with Mr. Smithson and his daughter.

Starting point is 00:13:22 Mrs. Nunn was not well enough to leave the house to-day. But, said Rhoda, the invalid preferred being left alone at such times. Are you sure she prefers it? Alice ventured to ask. The girl gave her a look of surprise. "'Why should Mother say what she doesn't mean?' It was uttered with an ingenuousness which threw some light on Rhoda's character. By nine o'clock the younger trio of sisters had gone to bed. Alice, Virginia, and Gertrude sat in the parlour, occupied with books, from time to time exchanging a quiet remark.

Starting point is 00:13:59 A tap at the door scarcely drew their attention, for they supposed it was the maid-servant coming to lay supper. But when the door opened there was a mysterious silence. Alice looked up and saw the expected face, wearing, however, so strange an expression, that she rose with sudden fear. "'Can I speak to you, please, miss?' The dialogue out in the passage was brief. A messenger had just arrived with the tidings that Dr. Madden, driving back from Kingston-Seymour, had been thrown from his vehicle, and lay incensed. at a roadside cottage. From time to time the doctor had been intending to buy a new horse.

Starting point is 00:14:41 His faithful old roadster was very weak in the knees. As in other matters, so in this, postponement became fatality. The horse stumbled and fell, and its driver was flung head forward into the road. Some hours later they brought him to his home. And for a day or two there were hopes that he might rally. the sufferer's respite only permitted him to dictate and sign a brief will. This duty performed, Dr. Madden closed his lips, forever. End of Chapter 1.

Starting point is 00:15:16 Chapter 2 of The Odd Women This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette. The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 2. Adrift Just before Christmas of 1887, a lady passed her twenties, and with a look of discouraged weariness on her thin face, knocked at a house-door in a little street by Lavender Hill.

Starting point is 00:15:44 A card in the window gave notice that a bedroom was here to let. When the door opened, and a clean, grave, elderly woman presented herself, the visitor, regarding her anxiously, made known that she was in search of a lodging. It may be for a few weeks only, or it may be for a longer period, she said in a low, tired voice, with an accent of good breeding. I have a difficulty in finding precisely what I want. One room would be sufficient, and I ask for very little attendance. She had but one room to let, replied the other.

Starting point is 00:16:22 It might be inspected. They went upstairs. The room was at the back of the house. Small but neatly furnished. Its appearance seemed to gratify the visitor, for she smiled timidly. "'What rent should you ask?' "'That would depend, ma'am, on what attendance was required.' "'Yes, of course.

Starting point is 00:16:44 I think—will you permit me to sit down? I am really very tired.' "'Thank you.' "'I require very little attendance indeed. My ways are very simple. I should make the bed myself, and—and do the other little things that are necessary from day to day. Perhaps I might ask you to sweep the room out, once a week or so." The landlady grew meditative.

Starting point is 00:17:12 Possibly she had had experience of lodgers who were anxious to give as little trouble as possible. She glanced furtively at the stranger. "'And what?' was her question at length. "'Would you be thinking of paying?' Perhaps I had better explain my position. For several years I have been companion to a lady in Hampshire. Her death has thrown me on my own resources. I hope only for a short time. I have come to London because a younger sister of mine is employed here in a house of business. She recommended me to seek for lodgings in this part. I might as well be near her whilst I am endeavouring to find another post. Perhaps I may be fortunate enough to find one and London. Quietness and economy are necessary to me. A house like yours would suit me very well, very well indeed. Could we not agree upon terms within my—within my power? Again the landlady pondered, "'Would you be willing to pay five and sixpence?'

Starting point is 00:18:16 "'Yes, I would pay five and sixpence, if you were quite sure that you could let me live in my own way with satisfaction to yourself. I—' In fact, I am a vegetarian, and as the meals I take are so very simple, I feel that I might just as well prepare them for myself. Would you object to my doing so in this room? A kettle and a sauce-spin are really all, absolutely all, that I should need to use. As I shall be much at home, it will be, of course, necessary for me to have a fire. In the course of half an hour an agreement had been devised, which seemed fairly satisfactory to both parties. i'm not one of the grasping ones remarked the landlady i think i may say that of myself if i make five or six shillings a week out of my spare room i don't grumble but the party as takes it must do their duty on their side you haven't told me your name yet mum miss madden my luggage is at the railway station it shall be brought here this evening and as i am quite unknown to you i shall be glad to pay my rent in advance well don't ask for that but it's just as you like then i will pay you five and sixpence at once be so kind as to let me have a receipt so miss madden established herself at lavender hill and dwelt there alone for three months she received letters frequently but only one person called upon her this was her sister monica now serving at a draper's in walworth road the young lady came every sunday and in bad weather spent the whole day up in the little bedroom. Lodger and landlady were on remarkably good terms. The one paid

Starting point is 00:20:01 her dues with exactness, and the other did many a little kindness not bargain for in the original contract. Time went on to the spring of 88. Then one afternoon Miss Madden descended to the kitchen, and tapped in her usual timid way at the door. "'Are you at leisure, Mrs. Cainsby? Could I have a little conversation with you?' The landlady was alone, and with no more engrossing occupation than the ironing of some linen she had recently washed. I have mentioned my elder sister now and then. I am sorry to say she is leaving her post with the family at Terreford. The children are going to school, so that her services are no longer needed.

Starting point is 00:20:42 Indeed, ma'am? Yes. For a shorter or longer time she will be in need of a home. Now it has occurred to me, Mrs. Coinsby, that—that I would ask you— you whether you would have any objection to her sharing my room with me. Of course there must be an extra payment. The room is small for two persons, but then the arrangement would be only temporary. My sister is a good and experienced teacher, and I am sure she will have no difficulty in obtaining another engagement."

Starting point is 00:21:11 Mrs. Coinsby reflected, but without a shade of discontent. By this time she knew that her lodger was thoroughly to be trusted. "'Well, it's if you can manage it, ma'am.' She replied, "'I don't see as I could have any fault to find. If you thought you could both live in that little room. And as for the rent, I should be quite satisfied if we said seven shillings instead of five and six.' "'Thank you, Mrs. Coinsby. Thank you very much, indeed. I will write to my sister at once. The news will be a great relief to her. We shall have quite an enjoyable little holiday together.' A week later the eldest of the three Miss Maddens arrived, as it was quite impossible to find space for her boxes in the bedroom,

Starting point is 00:21:52 mrs coinsby allowed them to be deposited in the room occupied by her daughter which was on the same floor in a day or two the sisters had begun a life of orderly tenor when weather permitted they were out either in the morning or afternoon alice madden was in london for the first time she desired to see the sights but suffered the restrictions of poverty and ill health after nightfall neither she nor virginia ever left home there was not much personal likeness between them the elder now five and thirty tended to corpulence the result of sedentary life she had round shoulders and very short legs her face would not have been disagreeable but for its spoilt complexion the homely features if health had but rounded and coloured them would have expressed pleasantly enough the gentleness and sincerity of her character her cheeks were loose puffy and permanently of the hue which is produced by cold her forehead generally had a few pimples her shapeless chin lost itself in two or three fleshy fissures scarcely less shy than in girlhood she walked with a quick ungainly movement, as if seeking to escape from someone, her head bent forward. Virginia, about thirty-three, had also an unhealthy look, but the poverty, or vitiation of her blood manifested itself in less unsightly forms. One saw that she had been calmly, and from certain

Starting point is 00:23:22 points of view her countenance still had a grace, a sweetness, all the more noticeable because of its threatened extinction. For she was rapidly aging. Her lax lips grew laxer. with emphasis of a characteristic one would rather have not perceived there. Her eyes sank into deeper hollows, wrinkles extended their network, the flesh of her neck wore away. Her tall, meager body did not seem strong enough to hold itself upright. Alice had brown hair, but very little of it. Virginia's was inclined to be ruddy. It surmounted her small head in coils and plaits not without beauty. The voice of the elder sister had contracted an unpleasant hoarseness, but she spoke with good enunciation. A slight stiffness and pedantry of phrase came,

Starting point is 00:24:08 no doubt, of her scholastic habits. Virginia was much more natural in manner and fluent in speech, even as she moved far more gracefully. It was now sixteen years since the death of Dr. Madden of Clevedon. The story of his daughter's lives in the interval may be told with brevity suitable to so unexciting a narrative. When the doctor's affairs were set in order, it was found that the patrimony of his six girls amounted, as nearly as possible, to eight hundred pounds. Eight hundred pounds is, to be sure, a sum of money, but how in these circumstances was it to be applied? There came over from Cheltenham a bachelor-uncle, aged about sixty. This gentleman lived on an annuity of seventy pounds, which would terminate when he did.

Starting point is 00:24:56 it might be reckoned to him for righteousness that he spent the railway fare between chelten and mcleavdon to attend his brother's funeral and to speak a kind word to his nieces influence he had none initiative very little there was no reckoning upon him for aid of any kind from richmond in yorkshire in reply to a letter from alice wrote an old old aunt of the late mrs madden who had occasionally sent the girl's presence her communication was barely legible it seemed to contain fortifying texts of scripture but nothing in the way of worldly counsel this old lady had no possessions to bequeath and as far as the girls knew she was their mother's only surviving relative the executor of the will was a clevedon tradesman a kind and capable friend of the family for many years a man of parts and attainment superior to his station in counsel with certain other well-disposed persons who regarded the madden circumstances with friendly anxiety mr hungerford testamentary instruction allowing him much freedom of action decided that the three elder girls must forthwith become self-supporting and that the three younger should live together in the care of a lady of small means who offered to house and keep them for the bare outlay necessitated a prudent investment of the eight hundred pounds might by this arrangement feed clothes and in some sort educate martha isabel and monica to see thus far ahead sufficed for the present fresh circumstances could be dealt with as they arose Alice obtained a situation as nursery governess at sixteen pounds a year. Virginia was fortunate enough to be accepted as companion by a gentlewoman at Weston-Supermare. Her payment, twelve pounds. Gertrude, fourteen years old, also went to Weston, where she was offered employment in a fancy goods shop. Her payment nothing at all, but lodging, board, and dress assured to her. Ten years went by and saw many changes. Gertrude and Martha were dead. the former of consumption the other drowned by the overturning of a pleasure-boat mr hungreford was also dead and a new guardian administered the fund which was still a common property of the four surviving daughters

Starting point is 00:27:11 alice plied her domestic teaching virginia remained a companion isabel now aged twenty taught in a boarding-school at bridgewater and monica just fifteen was on the point of being apprenticed to a draper at weston where virginia abode To serve behind a counter would not have been Monica's choice, if any more liberal employment had seemed within her reach. She had no aptitude whatever for giving instruction—indeed had no aptitude for anything but being a pretty, cheerful, engaging girl, much dependent on the love and gentleness of those about her. In speech and bearing, Monica greatly resembled her mother—that is to say, she had native elegance. Certainly it might be deemed a pity that such a girl could not be introduced to one of the higher walk—and of life, but the time had come when she must do something, and the people to whose guidance

Starting point is 00:28:03 she looked had but narrow experience of life. Alice and Virginia sighed over the contrast with bygone hopes, but their own careers made it seem probable that Monica would be better off in business than in a more strictly genteel position. And there was every likelihood that, at such a place as Weston, with her sister for occasional chaperone, she would ere long find herself relieved of the necessity of working for a livelihood. To the others, no wooer had yet presented himself. Alice, if she had ever dreamt of marriage, must by now have resigned herself to spinsterhood. Virginia could scarce hope that her faded

Starting point is 00:28:40 prettiness, her health damaged by attendance upon an exacting invalid and in profitless study when she ought to have been sleeping, would attract any man in search of a wife. Poor Isabel was so extremely plain. Monica, if her promise were fulfilled, would be by far the best-looking, as well as the sprightliest of the family. She must marry, of course, she must marry, her sisters gladdened in the thought. Isabel was soon worked into illness. Brain trouble came on, resulting in melancholia. A charitable institution ultimately received her, and there, at two-and-twenty, the poor hard-featured girl drowned herself in a bad. Their numbers had thus been reduced by half.

Starting point is 00:29:24 Up to now the income of their eight hundred pounds had served impartially the ends now of this, now of that one, doing a little good to all, saving them from many an hour of bitterness which must else have been added to their lot. By a new arrangement the capital was at length made over to Alice and Virginia jointly, the youngest sister having a claim upon them to the extent of an annual nine pounds. A trifle, but it would buy her clothing. And then Monica was sure to marry. Thank heaven she was sure to marry.

Starting point is 00:29:55 Without notable event, matrimonial or other, time went on to this present year of 1888. Late in June, Monica would complete her twenty-first year. The elders, full of affection for the sister, who so notably surpassed them in beauty of person, talked much about her as the time approached, devising how to procure her a little pleasure on her birthday. Virginia thought a suitable present would be a copy of the Christian year. She has really no time for continuous reading. A verse of Keeble—just one verse at bedtime and in the morning might be strength to the poor

Starting point is 00:30:31 girl." Alice assented, "'We must join to buy it, dear,' she added with an anxious look. It wouldn't be justifiable to spend more than two or three shillings. I fear not. They were preparing their midday meal, the substantial repast of the day. In a little saucepan on an oil-cooking stove was some plain rice, bubbling as Alice stirred it. Virginia fetched from downstairs—Mrs. Coinsby had assigned to them a shelf in her larder—bred,

Starting point is 00:31:03 butter, cheese, a pot of preserve, and arranged the table—three feet by one and a half, at which they were accustomed to eat. The rice being ready, it was turned out in two proportions, made savoury with a little butter, pepper, and salt, it invited them to sit down. As they had been out in the morning, the afternoon would be spent in domestic occupations. The low cane-chair Virginia had appropriated to her sister because of the latter's headaches and backaches and other disorders. She herself sat on an ordinary chair of the bedside species, to which by this time she had become used. Their sewing, when they did any, was strictly

Starting point is 00:31:41 indispensable. If nothing demanded the needle, both preferred a book. alice who had never been a student in the proper sense of the word read for the twentieth time a few volumes in her possession poetry popular history and half a dozen novels such as the average mother of children would have approved in the governess's hands With Virginia the case was somewhat different. Up to about her twenty-fourth year she had pursued one subject with a zeal limited only by her opportunities, study absolutely disinterested, seeing that she had never supposed it would increase her value as a companion or enable her to take any better position. Her one intellectual desire was to know as much as possible about ecclesiastical history. Not in a spirit of fanaticism. She was devout, but in moderation, and never spoke bitterly on religious topics.

Starting point is 00:32:32 The growth of the Christian Church, old sects and schisms, the councils, affairs of papal policy, these things had a very genuine interest for her. Circumstances favoring she might have become an erudite woman. But the conditions were so far from favorable that all she succeeded in doing was to undermine her health. Upon a sudden breakdown there followed mental lassitude, from which she never recovered. It being subsequently her duty to read novels aloud for the lady whom she companioned knew novels at the rate of a volume a day, she lost all power of giving her mind to anything but

Starting point is 00:33:08 the feebler fiction. Nowadays she procured such works from a lending library on a subscription of a shilling a month. Ashamed at first to indulge this taste before Alice, she tried more solid literature. But this either sent her to sleep or induced headache. The feeble novels reappeared. and as Alice made no adverse comment, they soon came and went with the old regularity. This afternoon the sisters were disposed for conversation. The same grave thought preoccupied both of them, and they soon made it their subject.

Starting point is 00:33:42 "'Surely,' Alice began by murmuring half-absently, "'I shall soon hear of something.' "'I am dreadfully uneasy on my own account,' her sister replied. "'You think the person at South End won't write to? again?" I'm afraid not, and she seemed so very unsatisfactory, positively illiterate—oh, I couldn't bear that." Virginia gave a shudder as she spoke. "'I almost wish,' said Alice, that I had accepted the place at Plymouth.

Starting point is 00:34:14 Oh, my dear, five children and not a penny of salary. It was a shameless proposal. "'It was indeed,' sighed the poor governess. But there is so little choice for people like myself. Certificates and even degrees are asked for on every hand. With nothing but references to past employers, what can one expect? I know it will end in my taking a place without salary. People seem to have still less need of me, lamented the companion.

Starting point is 00:34:46 I wish now that I had gone to Norwich as Lady-Help. Dear, your health would never have supported it. I don't know. possibly the more active life might do me good it might you know alice the other admitted this possibility with a deep sigh let us review our position she then exclaimed it was a phrase frequently on her lips and always made her more cheerful virginia also seemed to welcome it as an encouragement mine said the companion is almost as serious as it could be i have only one pound left with the exception of the dividend. I have rather more than four pounds still. Now let us think.

Starting point is 00:35:30 Alice paused. Supposing we neither of us obtain employment before the end of this year. We have to live, in that case, more than six months. You on seven pounds, and I on ten. It's impossible, said Virginia. Let us see. Put it in another form. We have both to live together on seventeen pounds.

Starting point is 00:35:54 is—she made computation on a piece of paper. That is two pounds, sixteen shillings and eightpence a month. Let us suppose this month at an end. That represents fourteen shillings and turpence a week. Yes, we can do it! She laid down her pencil with an air of triumph. Her dull eyes brightened as though she had discovered a new source of income. "'We cannot, dear,' urged Virginia in a subdued voice. "'Seven shillings rent. That leaves us only seven in tuppence a week for everything—everything. "'We could do it, dear,' persisted the other. "'If it came to the very worst, our food need not cost more than sixpence a day, three

Starting point is 00:36:38 and sixpence a week. I do really believe, Virgie, we could support life on less—say, on fourpence. Yes, we could, dear.' They looked fixedly at each other, like people about to stake everything on their courage. "'Is such a life worthy of the name?' asked Virginia in tones of awe. "'We shan't be driven to that. Oh, we certainly shall not. But it helps one to know that, strictly speaking, we are independent for another six months.' That word gave Virginia an obvious thrill. "'Independent! Oh, Alice, what a blessed thing is independence! Do you know, my dear,

Starting point is 00:37:21 I am afraid I have not exerted myself as I might have done to find a new place. These comfortable lodgings, and the pleasure of seeing Monica once a week, have tempted me into idleness. It isn't really my wish to be idle. I know the harm it does me. But, oh, if one could work in a home of one's own!' Alice had a startled apprehensive look, as if her sister were touching on a subject hardly proper for discussion, or at least dangerous.

Starting point is 00:37:49 I'm afraid it's no use thinking of that, dear," she answered awkwardly. "'No use. No use, whatever. I am wrong to indulge in such thoughts.' "'Whatever happens, my dear,' said Alice presently, with all the impressiveness of tone she could command. We must never entrench upon our capital—never, never! Oh, never, if we grow old and useless. If no one will give us even bored and lodging for our services. If we haven't a friend to look to—' Alice threw in, as though they were answering each other in a doleful litany. Then indeed we shall be glad that nothing tempted us to entrench on our capital.

Starting point is 00:38:33 It would just keep us—her voice sank—from the workhouse. After this, each took up a volume, and until Tito, time they read quietly. From six to nine in the evening they again talked and read alternately. Their conversation was now retrospective. Each revived memories of what she had endured in one or the other house of bondage. Never had it been their lot to serve really nice people. This phrase of theirs was anything but meaningless. They had lived with more or less well-to-do families in the lower middle class, people who could not have inherited refinement, and had not acquired any, neither proletarians nor gentlefolk, consumed with a disease of vulgar pretentiousness,

Starting point is 00:39:17 inflated with the miasma of democracy. It would have been but a natural result of such a life if the sisters had commented upon it in a spirit somewhat akin to that of their employers. But they spoke without rancor, without scandal-mongering. They knew themselves superior to the women who had grudgingly paid them, and often smiled at recollections which would have moved the servile mind to venomous abuse. At nine o'clock they took a cup of cocoa and a biscuit, and half an hour later they went to bed. Lamp oil was costly, and indeed they felt glad to say as early as possible that another day had gone by.

Starting point is 00:39:54 Their hour of rising was eight. Mrs. Coinsby provided hot water for their breakfast. On descending to fetch it, Virginia found that the postman had left a letter for her. The writing on the envelope seemed to be estrangers. She ran upstairs again in a-endix-a-endix-one. excitement. Who can this be from, Alice? The elder sister had one of her headaches this morning. She was clay-colour, and tottered in moving about. The close atmosphere of the bedroom would alone have accounted for such a malady, but an unexpected letter made her for the moment oblivious of suffering. "'Posted in London,' she said, examining the envelope eagerly.

Starting point is 00:40:33 "'Someone you have been in correspondence with?' "'It's months since I wrote to anyone in London.' for full five minutes they debated the mystery afraid of dashing their hopes by breaking the envelope at length virginia summoned courage standing at a distance from the other she took out the sheet of paper with tremulous hand and glanced fearfully at the signature what do you think it's miss nun miss nun never how could she have got the address again the difficulty was discussed whilst its ready solution lay neglected "'Do read it,' said Alice at length, her throbbing head made worse by the agitation, obliging her to sink down into the chair. The letter ran thus. "'Dear Miss Madden, this morning I chanced to meet with Mrs. Darby, who was passing through London on her way home from the seaside. We had only five minutes talk. It was at a railway

Starting point is 00:41:29 station, but she mentioned that you were at present in London and gave me your address. After all these years how glad I should be to see you! The struggle of life is made me selfish, I have neglected my old friends. And yet I am bound to add that some of them have neglected me. Would you rather that I came to your lodgings or you to mine? Which you like. I hear that your elder sister is with you, and that Monika is also in London somewhere. Do let us all see each other once more. Right as soon as you can, my kindest regards to all of you. Sincerely yours, Rode a nun." "'How like her!' exclaimed Virginia.

Starting point is 00:42:08 when she had read this aloud. To remember that perhaps we may not care to receive visitors. She was always so thoughtful. And it is true that I ought to have written to her. We shall go to her, of course. Oh, yes, as she gives us the choice. How delightful! I wonder what she is doing. She writes cheerfully. I am sure she must be in a good position. What is the address? Queen's Road, Chelsea. I am so glad it's not very far, we can walk there and back easily for several years they had lost sight of rhoda nun she left cleveland shortly after the maddens were scattered and they heard she had become a teacher about the date of monica's apprenticeship at weston miss nun had a chance meeting with virginia and the younger girl she was still teaching but spoke of her work with extreme discontent and hinted at vague projects whether she succeeded in releasing herself the maddens never heard it was a morning of doubtful fairness before going to bed last night they had decided to walk out together this morning and purchased the present for monica's birthday which was next sunday but alice felt too unwell to leave the house virginia should write a reply to miss nun's letter and then go to the booksellers alone

Starting point is 00:43:26 she set forth at half-past nine with extreme care she had preserved an out-of-doors dress into the third summer it did not look shabby her mantle was in its second year only the original fawn colour had gone to an indeterminate grey her hat of brown straw was a possession for ever it underwent new trimming at an outlay of a few pence when that became unavoidable yet virginia could not have been judged anything but a lady she wore her garments as only a lady can The position and movement of the arms has much to do with this, and had the step never to be acquired by a person of vulgar instincts. A very long walk was before her. She wished to get as far as the Strand book-shops, not only for the sake of choice, but because this region pleased her and gave her a sense of holiday. Past Battersea Park, over Chelsea Bridge, then the weary stretch to Victoria Station,

Starting point is 00:44:22 and the upward labour to Charing Cross. Five miles at least measured by pavement. But Virginia walked quickly. At half-past eleven, she was within sight of her goal. A presentable copy of Keeble's work cost less than she had imagined. This rejoiced her. But after leaving the shop she had a singular expression on her face, something more than weariness, something less than anxiety,

Starting point is 00:44:46 something other than calculation. In front of Charing Cross station she stopped, looking vaguely about her. Perhaps she had it in her mind to return home by omnibus and was dreading the expense. Yet of a sudden she turned and went up the approach to the railway. At the entrance again she stopped. Her features were now working in the strangest way, as though a difficulty of breathing had assailed her. In her eyes was an eager yet frightened look.

Starting point is 00:45:14 Her lips stood apart. Another quick movement and she entered the station. She went straight to the door of the refreshment room and looked in, and looked in. through the glass. Two or three people were standing inside. She drew back, a tremor passing through her. A lady came out. Then again Virginia approached the door. Two men only were within talking together. With a hurried, nervous movement, she pushed the door open and went up to a part of the counter as far as possible from the two customers. Fending forward, she'd said to the barmaid, in a voice just above a whisper, "'Kindly, give me a little brandy!'

Starting point is 00:45:52 Beads of perspiration were on her face, which had turned to a ghastly pallor. The barmaid, concluding that she was ill, served her promptly and with a sympathetic look. Virginia added to the spirit twice its quantity of water, standing as she did so half-turned from the bar. Then she sipped hurriedly two or three times, and at length took a draft. Color flowed to her cheeks, her eyes lost their frightened glare. Another draft finished the stimulant. She hastily wiped her lips and walked away with firm step.

Starting point is 00:46:26 In the meantime a threatening cloud had passed from the sun. Warm rays fell upon the street and its clamorous life. Virginia felt tired in body, but a delightful animation, rarest of boons, gave her new strength. She walked into Trafalgar Square and viewed it like a person who stands there for the first time, smiling, interested. A quarter of an hour passed while she merely enjoyed. the air, the sunshine, and the scene about her. Such a quarter of an hour, so calm, contented, unconsciously hopeful, as she had not known since Alice's coming to London. She reached the house by half-past one, bringing in a paper bag something which was to serve for dinner.

Starting point is 00:47:08 Alice had a wretched appearance, her headache worse than ever. "'Vergie!' she moaned. "'We never took account of illness, you know.' "'Oh, we must keep that off,' replied the other. sitting down with a look of exhaustion. She smiled, but no longer as in the sunlight of Telfar Square. Yes, I must struggle against it. We will have dinner as soon as possible. I feel faint. If both of them had avowed their faintness as often as they felt it, the complaint would have been perpetual. But they generally made a point of deceiving each other, and tried to

Starting point is 00:47:44 delude themselves, professing that no diet could be better for their particular needs than this which poverty imposed. "'Ah, it's a good sign to be hungry,' exclaimed Virginia. "'You'll be better this afternoon, dear.' Alice turned over the Christian year and endeavored to console herself out of it, whilst her sister prepared the meal. End of Chapter 2. Chapter 3 of The Odd Women.

Starting point is 00:48:12 This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette. The Odd Women by George Gissing Chapter 3 An Independent Woman Virginia's reply to Miss Nunn's letter brought another note next morning, Saturday.

Starting point is 00:48:31 It was to request a call from the sisters that same afternoon. Alice, unfortunately, would not be able to leave home. Her disorder had become a feverish cold, caught doubtless between open window and door whilst the bedroom was being aired for breakfast. She lay in bed, and her sister administered remedies of the chemists advising. But she insisted on Virginia leaving her in the afternoon. Miss Nunn might have something of importance to tell or to suggest.

Starting point is 00:49:02 Mrs. Coinsby, sympathetic in her crude way, would see that the invalid wanted for nothing. So, after a dinner of mashed potatoes and milk, the Irish peasantry live almost entirely on that, croaked Alice. And they are physically. a fine race." The younger sister started on her walk to Chelsea. Her destination was a plain, low, roomy old house in Queens Road, over against the hospital gardens. On asking for Miss Nunn, she was led to a back room on the ground floor, and there waited for a few moments. Several large bookcases, a well-equipped writing-table and kindred objects, indicated that the occupant of the

Starting point is 00:49:46 house was studious, the numerous bunches of cut flowers, which agreeably scented the air, seemed to prove the student was a woman. Miss Nunn entered. Younger only by a year or two than Virginia, she was yet far from presenting any sorrowful image of a person on the way to old maidenhood. She had a clear, though pale skin, a vigorous frame, brisk movement, all the signs of fairly good health. Whether or not she could be called a common, woman might have furnished matter for male discussion the prevailing voice of her own sex would have denied her charm of feature at first view the countenance seemed masculine its expression somewhat aggressive eyes shrewdly observant and lips consciously impregnable but the connoisseur delayed his verdict it was a face that invited that compelled study self-confidence intellectual keenness a bright humor frank courage, were traits legible enough. And when the lips parted to show their warmth,

Starting point is 00:50:52 their fullness, when the eyelids drooped a little in meditation, one became aware of a suggestiveness, directed not solely to the intellect, of something like an unfamiliar sexual type, remote indeed from the voluptuous, but hinting a possibility of subtle feminine forces that might be released by circumstance. She wore a black serge gown. with white collar and cuffs. Her thick hair rippled low upon each side of the forehead, and behind was gathered into loose vertical coils. In shadow the hue seemed black, but when illumined it was seen to be the darkest, warmest brown. Offering a strong, shapely hand, she looked at her visitor with a smile, which betrayed some mixture of pain

Starting point is 00:51:39 in the hearty welcome. "'And how long have you been in London?' It was the tone of a busy, practical person. Her voice had not much softness of timbre, and perhaps on that account she kept it carefully subdued. "'So long as that! How I wish I had known you were so near! I have been in London myself about two years! And your sisters?' Virginia explained Alice's absence, adding, "'As for poor Monica, she has only Sunday free, except one evening a month. She is at business till half-past nine, and on Saturday till half-past eleven or twelve." "'Oh, dear, dear!' exclaimed the other rapidly, making a motion with her hand as if to brush away something disagreeable.

Starting point is 00:52:26 "'That will never do. You must put a stop to that.' "'I am sure we ought to.' Virginia's thin, timid voice and weak manner were thrown into painful contrast by Miss Nunn's personality. "'Yes, yes, we will talk about it presently. "'Poor little Monica. "'But do tell me about yourself and Miss Madden. "'It is so long since I heard about you.'

Starting point is 00:52:48 "'Indeed, I ought to have written. "'I remember that at the end of our correspondence "'I remained in your debt. "'But it was a troublesome and depressing time with me. "'I had nothing but groans and moans to send. "'You didn't stay long, I trust, with that trying Mrs. Carr.' "'Three years,' sighed Virginia. "'Oh, your patient!'

Starting point is 00:53:11 I wished to leave again and again, but at the end she always begged me not to desert her. That was how she put it. After all I never had the heart to go." "'Very kind of you, but—' Those questions are so difficult to decide. Self-sacrifice may be quite wrong, I'm afraid.' "'Do you think so?' asked Virginia anxiously. "'Yes, I am sure it is often wrong, all the more so because people proclaim it a virtue without any reference to circumstances. Then how did you get away at last?'

Starting point is 00:53:46 The poor woman died. Then I had a place scarcely less disagreeable. Now I have none at all. But I really must find one very soon. She laughed at this allusion to her poverty, and made nervous motions. "'Let me tell you what my own course has been,' said Miss Nunn, after short reflection.

Starting point is 00:54:08 When my mother died I determined to have done with teaching. You know that. I disliked it too much, and partly, of course, because I was incapable. Half my teaching was a sham, a pretence of knowing what I neither knew nor cared to know. I had gone into it, like most girls, as a dreary matter of course. Like poor Alice, I'm afraid. Oh, it's a distressing subject. When my mother left me that little sum of money, I took a bold step. I went to Bristol to learn everything I could that would help me out of school life.

Starting point is 00:54:39 Short-hand, bookkeeping, commercial correspondence, I had lessons in them all, and worked desperately for a year. It did me good. At the end of the year I was vastly improved in health, and felt myself worth something in the world. I got a place as a cashier in a large shop. That soon tired me, and by dint of advertising I found a place in an office at Bath. It was a move towards London, and I couldn't rest till I had come the whole way. My first engagement here was as as a shorthand-writer to the secretary of a company, but he soon wanted someone who could use a typewriter. That was a suggestion. I went to learn typewriting, and the lady who taught me asked me in the end to stay with her as an assistant. This is her house, and here I live

Starting point is 00:55:26 with her." How energetic you have been! How fortunate, perhaps! I must tell you about this lady, Miss Barfoot. She has private means, not large, but sufficient to allow of her combining benevolence with business. She makes it her object to train young girls for work in offices, teaching them the things that I learnt in Bristol, and typewriting as well. Some pay for their lessons, and some get them for nothing. Our work-rooms are in Great Portland Street, over a picture-cleaner shop. One or two girls have evening lessons, but our pupils, for the most part, are able to come in the day. Miss Barfoot hasn't much interest

Starting point is 00:56:05 in the lower classes, she wishes to be of use to the daughters of educated people. And she is of use. She is doing admirable work. Oh, I am sure she must be. What a wonderful person. It occurs to me that she might help Monica. Oh, do you think she would? exclaimed Virginia with eager attention. How grateful we should be! Where is Monica employed? At Draper's in Walworth Road, she has worked to death. Every week I see a difference in her poor child. We hope to persuade her to go back to the shop at Weston.

Starting point is 00:56:42 But if this you speak of were possible, how much better? We have never reconciled ourselves to her being in that position. Never. I see no harm in the position itself,' replied Miss Nunn, in her rather blunt tone. But I see a great deal in those outrageous hours. She won't easily do better in London without special qualifications, and probably she is reluctant. to go back to the country?" "'Yes, she is. Very reluctant.' "'I understand it,' said the other with a nod.

Starting point is 00:57:13 "'Will you ask her to come and see me?' A servant entered with tea. Miss Nunn caught the expression in her visitor's eyes and said cheerfully, "'I had no midday meal to-day, and really I feel the omission. Mary, please do put tea in the dining-room and bring up some meat. Miss Barfoot,' she added in explanation to Virginia, "'Is out of town, and I am a shockingly irregular person about meals. I am sure you will sit down with me.'

Starting point is 00:57:41 Virginia sported with the subject. Months of miserable eating and drinking in her stuffy bedroom made an invitation such as this a veritable delight to her. Seated in the dining-room, she at first refused the offer of meat, alleging her vegetarianism, but Miss Nunn, convinced that the poor woman was starving, succeeded in persuading her. A slice of good beef had much the same effect. upon Virginia as her more dangerous indulgence at Charing Cross Station. She brightened wonderfully.

Starting point is 00:58:11 "'Now, let us go back to the library,' said Miss Nunn when their meal was over. "'We shall soon see each other again, I hope, but we might as well talk of serious things whilst we have the opportunity. Will you allow me to be very frank with you?' The other looked startled. "'What could you possibly say that would offend me?' "'In the old days you told me all about your circumstances. Are they still the same?" Precisely the same.

Starting point is 00:58:38 Most happily we have never needed to entrench upon our capital. Whatever happens, we must avoid that. Whatever happens. I quite understand you. But wouldn't it be possible to make a better use of that money? It is £800, I think. Have you never thought of employing it in some practical enterprise? Virginia at first shrank in alarm,

Starting point is 00:59:00 then trembled deliciously at her friend's bold views. Would it be possible? Really? You think? I can only suggest, of course. One mustn't argue about others from one's own habit of thought. Heaven forbid! This sounded rather profane to the listener.

Starting point is 00:59:17 That I should urge you to do anything you'd think rush. But how much better if you could somehow secure independence? Ah, if we could. The very thing we were saying the other day. But how? I have no idea how. Miss Nunn seemed to hesitate. I don't advise. You mustn't give any weight to what I say, except in so far as your own

Starting point is 00:59:40 judgment approves it. But couldn't one open a preparatory school, for instance, at Western, suppose, where already you know a good many people, or even at Clevedon?" Virginia drew in her breath, and it was easy for Miss Nunn to perceive that the proposal went altogether beyond her friend's scope. Impossible, perhaps, to inspire these worn and discouraged women with the particle of her own enterprise. Perchance they altogether lacked ability to manage a school for even the youngest children. She did not press the subject. It might come up on another occasion.

Starting point is 01:00:16 Virginia begged for time to think it over, then remembering her invalid sister, felt that she must not prolong the visit. Do take some of these flowers," said Miss Nunn, collecting a rich nosegay from the vases. Let them be my message to your sister. I should be so glad to see Monica. Sunday is a good time. I am always at home in the afternoon." With a fluttering heart Virginia made what haste she could homewards. The interview had filled her with the turmoil of strange new thoughts, which she was impatient to pour forth for Alice's wondering comment. It was the first time in her life that she had spoken with a woman, daring

Starting point is 01:00:54 enough to think and act for herself. End of Chapter 3. Chapter 4 of The Odd Women This Librivox recording is in the public domain Recording by Elizabeth Clette The Odd Women by George Gissing Chapter 4 Monica's majority

Starting point is 01:01:15 In the drapery establishment where Monica Madden worked and lived It was not, as is sometimes the case, positively forbidden to the resident employees to remain at home on Sunday, but they were strongly recommended to make the utmost possible use of that weekly vacation. Herein, no doubt, appeared a laudable regard for their health. Young people, especially young women, who are laboriously engaged in a shop for thirteen hours and a half every weekday, and on Saturday for an average of sixteen, may be supposed

Starting point is 01:01:49 to need a Sabbath of open air. Messrs. Scotcher and Company acted like conscientious men in driving them forth immediately after breakfast, and enjoining upon them not to return until bedtime. By way of well-meaning constraint, it was directed that only the very scantiest meals—plain bread and cheese, in fact, should be supplied to those who did not take advantage of the holiday. Monsieur's Scotter and Company were large-minded men. Not only did they insist that the Sunday ought to be used for bodily recreation, but they had no objection whatever to their young friends taking a stroll after closing time every evening.

Starting point is 01:02:28 Nay, so generous and confiding were they, that to each young person they allowed a latch-key. The air of Walworth Road is pure and invigorating about midnight. Why should the reposeful ramble be hurried by consideration for weary domestics? Monica always felt too tired to walk after ten o'clock. Moreover, the usual conversation in the dormitory which she shared with five other young women was so little to her taste that she wished to be asleep when the talkers came up to bed. But on Sunday she gladly followed the council of her employers.

Starting point is 01:03:04 If the weather were bad, the little room at Lavender Hill offered her a retreat. When the sun shone, she liked to spend a part of the day in free wandering about London, which even yet had not quite disillusioned her. And to-day it shone brightly. This was her birthday, the completion. of her one and twentieth year. Alice and Virginia, of course, expected her early in the morning, and, of course, they were all to dine together, at the table measuring three feet by one and a half, but the afternoon and evening she must have to herself. The afternoon, because a few hours of her

Starting point is 01:03:41 sister's talk invariably depressed her, and the evening, because she had an appointment to keep. As she left the big, ugly establishment, her heart beat cheerfully, and a smile fluttered. about her lips. She did not feel very well, but that was a matter of course. The ride in an omnibus would perhaps make her head clearer. Monica's face was of a recognized type of prettiness, a pure oval. From the smooth forehead to the dimpled little chin all its lines were soft and graceful. Her lack of color, by heightening the effect of black eyebrows and darkly lustrous eyes, gave her at present a more spiritual cast than her character justified, but a thoughtful firmness was native to her lips, and no possibility of smirk or simper lurked in the attractive features.

Starting point is 01:04:33 The slim figure was well fitted in a costume of pale blue, cheap but becoming. A modest little hat rested on her black hair, her gloves and her sunshade completed the dainty picture. An omnibus would be met in Kennington Park Road. On her way thither in a quiet cross-street she was overtaken by a young man who had left the house of business a moment after her, and had followed at a short distance timidly. A young man of unhealthy countenance, with a red pimple on the side of his nose, but not otherwise ill-looking. He was clad with propriety, stove-pipe hat, diagonal frock-coat, grey trousers, and he walked with a springy gate. Miss Madden?

Starting point is 01:05:16 He had ventured with perturricular. in his face to overtake Monica. She stopped. "'What is it, Mr. Bollivant?' Her tone was far from encouraging, but the young man smiled upon her with timorous tenderness. "'What a beautiful morning! Are you going far?' He had the cockney accent, but not in an offensive degree. His manners were not flagrantly of the shop. "'Yes, some distance.'

Starting point is 01:05:44 Monica walked slowly on. "'Will you allow me to walk little way with you? you?" he pleaded, bending towards her. "'I shall take the omnibus at the end of this street.' They went forward together. Monica no longer smiled, but neither did she look angry. Her expression was one of trouble. "'Where shall you spend the day, Mr. Bullivant?'

Starting point is 01:06:07 she asked at length, with an effort to seem unconcerned. "'I really don't know.' "'I should think it would be very nice up the river,' and she added diffidently. miss ead is going to richmond is she he replied vaguely at least she wished to go if she could find a companion i hope she will enjoy yourself said mr bullivant with careful civility but of course she won't enjoy it very much if she has to go alone as you have no particular engagement mr bullivant wouldn't it be kind to-the suggestion was incomplete but intelligible "'I couldn't ask Miss Ede to let me accompany, huh?' said the young man gravely. "'Oh, I think you could. She would like it.' Monica looked rather frightened at her boldness, and quickly added,

Starting point is 01:07:00 "'Now I must say good-bye. There comes the bus.' Bullivant turned desperately in that direction. He saw there was as yet no inside passenger. "'Do allow me to go a short way with you?' burst from his lips. "'I positively don't know how I shall spend the morning.' monica had signalled to the driver and was hurrying forward bollivan followed reckless of consequences in a minute both were seated within you will forgive me pleaded the young fellow remarking a look of serious irritation on his companion's face i must be with you a few minutes longer i think when i have begged you not to i know how bad my behaviour must seem but miss madden may i not be on terms of friendship with you of course you may but you are not content with that yes indeed we'll be content it's foolish to say so haven't you broken the understanding three or four times the bus stopped for a passenger a man who mounted to the top i'm so sorry murmured bullivant as the starting horses jolted them together i try not to worry you think of my position you've told me there is no one else who

Starting point is 01:08:18 whose rights I ought to respect. Feeling as I do, it isn't a human nature to give up hope. Then will you let me ask you a rude question? Ask me any question, Miss Madden. How would it be possible for you to support a wife? She flushed and smiled. Bolivant, dreadfully discomposed, did not move his eyes from her. It wouldn't be possible for some time, he answered in a thick voice.

Starting point is 01:08:45 I have nothing but my wretched salary. But everyone hopes. What reasonable hope have you? Monica urged, forcing herself to be cruel, because it seemed the only way of putting an end to this situation. Oh, there are so many opportunities in our business. I could point to half a dozen successful men who were at the counter a few years ago. I may become a walker, and get at least three pounds a week. If I were lucky enough to be taken on as a buyer, I might make—

Starting point is 01:09:15 Why, some make many hundreds a year, many hundreds!' And you would ask me to wait on and on for one of those wonderful chances. "'If I could move your feelings, Miss Madden,' he began, with a certain dolorous dignity, but there his voice broke. He saw too plainly that the girl had neither faith in him nor liking for him. Mr. Bullivant, I think you ought to wait until you really have prospects. If you were encouraged by some person it would be a different thing, and indeed you haven't to look far.

Starting point is 01:09:53 But where there has never been the slightest encouragement, you are really wrong to act in this way. A long engagement, where everything remains doubtful for years, is so wretched that—' Oh, if I were a man, I would never try to persuade a girl into that. I think it is wrong and cruel." The stroke was effectual. Bolivant averted his face. naturally woe-begone, and sat for some minutes without speaking. The bus again drew up. Four or five people were about to ascend. "'Al was I good-morning, Miss Madden,' he whispered hurriedly.

Starting point is 01:10:28 She gave her hand, glanced at him with embarrassment, and so let him depart. Ten minutes restored the mood in which she had set out. Once more she smiled to herself. Indeed her head was better for the fresh air and the movement. If only the sister's would allow her to get away soon after dinner. It was Virginia who opened the door to her, and embraced and kissed her with wonted fondness. "'You are nice and early. Poor Alice has been in bed since the day before yesterday—a dreadful cold, and one of her very worst headaches. But I think she is a little better this morning.' Alice, a sad spectacle, was propped up on pillows.

Starting point is 01:11:12 "'Don't kiss me, darling,' she said. said in a voice, barely audible, "'You mustn't risk getting a sore throat. Oh, how well you look!' "'I'm afraid she doesn't look well,' corrected Virginia. "'But perhaps she has a little more colour than of late. Monica, dear, as Alice can hardly use her voice, I will speak for both of us,

Starting point is 01:11:36 and wish you many, many happy returns of the day, and we ask you to accept this little book from us. It may be a comfort to you from time to you. time. You are good, kind, dears, replied Monica, kissing the one on the lips and the other on her thinly-tressed head. It's no use saying you oughtn't to have spent money on me. You will always do it.

Starting point is 01:12:00 What a nice Christian year. I'll do my best to read some of it now and then. With a half-guilty air, Virginia then brought from some corner of the room a very small but delicate currant cake. Monica must eat a mouthful of this. She always had such a wretched breakfast, and the journey from Walworth Road was enough to give an appetite. "'But you are ruining yourselves, foolish people.' The others exchanged a look, and smiled with such a strange air that Monica could not but notice

Starting point is 01:12:32 it. "'I know,' she cried, "'there's good news. You have found something, and better than usual, Vajee.' perhaps so who knows eat your slice of cake like a good child and then i shall have something to tell you obviously the two were excited virginia moved about with the recovered step of girlhood held herself upright and could not steady her hands You would never guess whom I have seen, she began, when Monica was quite ready to listen. We had a letter the other morning which did puzzle us, so, I mean the writing before we opened it, and it was from Miss Nunn.' This name did not greatly stir Monica.

Starting point is 01:13:18 "'You had quite lost sight of her, hadn't you?' she remarked. "'Quite. I didn't suppose we should ever hear of her again, but nothing more fortunate could have happened. My dear, she is wonderful! At considerable length Virginia detailed all she had learnt of Miss Nunn's career, and described her present position. She will be the most valuable friend to us. Oh, her strength, her resolution! The way in which she discovers the right thing to do! You are to call upon her as soon as possible. This very afternoon you had better go. She will relieve you from all your troubles, darling. Her friend is to call her. Her friend is she is to call upon her as soon as possible. friend, Miss Barfoot, will teach you typewriting, and put you in the way of earning an easy

Starting point is 01:14:02 and pleasant livelihood. She will indeed." "'But how long does it take?' asked the astonished girl. "'Oh, quite a short time, I should think. We didn't speak of details. They were postponed. You will hear everything yourself.' And she suggested all sorts of ways," pursued Virginia, with quite unintentional exaggeration, in which we could make better use of our invested money. She is full of practical expedients—the most wonderful person. She is quite like a man in energy and resources. I never imagined that one of our sex could resolve and plan and act as she does."

Starting point is 01:14:42 Monica inquired anxiously what the projects for improving their income might be. "'Nothing is decided yet,' was the reply, given with a confident smile. Let us first of all put you in comfort and security. That is the immediate need. The listener was interested, but did not show any eagerness for the change proposed. Presently she stood at the window and lost herself in thought. Alice gave signs of an inclination to doze. She had had a sleepless night, in spite of soporifics.

Starting point is 01:15:13 Though no sun entered the room, it was very hot, and the presence of a third person made the air oppressive. "'Don't you think we might go out for half an hour?' "'Monica whispered, when Virginia had pointed to the invalid's closed eyes. "'I'm sure it's very unhealthy for us all to be in this little place.' "'I don't like to leave her,' the other whispered back. "'But I certainly think it would be better for you to have fresh air. "'Wouldn't you like to go to church, dear? The bells haven't stopped yet.' The elder sisters were not quite regular in their church-going,

Starting point is 01:15:49 When weather or lassitude kept them at home on Sunday morning they read the service aloud. Monica found the duty of listening rather grievous. During the months that she was alone in London, she had fallen into neglect of public worship, not from any conscious emancipation, but because her companions at the House of Business never dreamt of entering a church, and their example by degrees affected her with carelessness. At present she was glad of the pretext for escaping until dinner-time. She went forth with the intention of deceiving her sisters, of walking to Clapham Common, and on her return inventing some sermon at a church the others never visited. But before she had gone many yards, conscience overcame her.

Starting point is 01:16:33 Was she not getting to be a very lax-minded girl? And it was shameful to impose upon the two after their loving kindness to her. As usual her little prayer-book was in her pocket. She walked quickly to the familiar church, and reached it just as the doors were being closed. of all the congregation she probably was the one who went through the service most mechanically not a word reached her understanding sitting standing or on her knees she wore the same preoccupied look with ever and again a slight smile or movement of the lips as if she were recalling some conversation of special interest last sunday she had had an adventure the first of any real moment that had befallen her in london she had arranged to go with miss ead on a steamboat up the river They were to meet at the Battersea Park landing-stage at half-past two. But Miss Ead did not keep her appointment, and Monica, unwilling to lose the trip, started alone.

Starting point is 01:17:30 She disembarked at Richmond and strayed about for an hour or two, then had a cup of tea and a bun. As it was still far too early to return, she went down to the riverside and seated herself on one of the benches. Many boats were going by, a majority of them containing only two persons, a young man who pulled, and a girl who held the strings of the tiller. Some of these couples Monica disregarded, but occasionally there passed a skiff from which she could not take her eyes, to lie back like that on the cushions and converse with a companion who had nothing of the shop about him.

Starting point is 01:18:05 It seemed hard that she must be alone. Poor Mr. Bullivant would gladly have taken her on the river, but Mr. Bullivant! She thought of her sisters. Their loneliness was for life, poor things. Already they were old, and they would grow older, sadder, perpetually struggling to supplement that dividend from the precious capital, and merely that they might keep alive. Oh, her heart ached at the misery of such a prospect.

Starting point is 01:18:32 How much better if the poor girls had never been born! Her own future was more hopeful than theirs had ever been. She knew herself good-looking. Men had followed her in the street and tried to make her acquaintance. Some of the girls with whom she lived regarded her envious. spitefully, but had she really the least chance of marrying a man whom she could respect, not to say love. One and twenty a week hence.

Starting point is 01:18:58 At Weston she had kept tolerable health, but certainly her constitution was not strong, and the slavery of Walworth Road threatened her with premature decay. Her sisters counselled wisely. Coming to London was a mistake. She would have had better chances at Weston, notwithstanding the extreme discretion with which she was obliged to conduct herself. While she mused thus, a profound discouragement settling on her sweet face, someone took a seat by her—on the same bench, that is to say.

Starting point is 01:19:30 Glancing aside, she saw that it was an oldish man, with grizzled whiskers and rather a stern visage. Monica sighed. Was it possible that he had heard her? He looked this way, and with curiosity. Ashamed of herself, she kept her eyes averted for a long time. following the movement of a boat, her face turned unconsciously towards the silent companion. He was looking at her, and he spoke. The gravity of his appearance and manner, the good-natured commonplace

Starting point is 01:19:59 that fell from his lips, could not alarm her. A dialogue began, and went on for about half an hour. How old might he be? After all he was probably not fifty, perchance not much more than forty. His utterance fell short of perfect refinement, but seemed that of an educated man. And certainly his clothes were such as a gentleman wears. He had thin, hairy hands, unmarked by any effect of labour. The nails could not have been better cared for. Was it a bad sign that he carried neither gloves nor walking-stick? His talk aimed at nothing but sober friendliness.

Starting point is 01:20:37 It was perfectly inoffensive, indeed respectful. Now and then—not too often. He fixed his eyes upon her for an instant. After the introductory phrases, he mentioned that he had had a long drive alone. His horse was baiting in preparation for the journey back to London. He often took such drives in the summer, though generally on a weekday. The magnificent sky had tempted him out this morning. He lived at Hearn Hill.

Starting point is 01:21:04 At length he ventured a question. Monica affected no reluctance to tell him that she was in a house of business, that she had relatives in London, that only by chance she found herself alone today. I should be sorry if I never saw you again." These words he uttered with embarrassment, his eyes on the ground. Monica could only keep silence. Half an hour ago she would not have thought it possible for any remark of this man's

Starting point is 01:21:30 seriously to occupy her mind. Yet now she waited for the next sentence in discomposure, which was quite free from resentment. We meet in this casual way, and talk, and then say goodbye. Why mayn't I tell you that you interest me very much, and that I am afraid to trust only to chance for another meeting? If you were a man, he smiled, I should give you my card and ask you to my house. The card I may at all events offer. Whilst speaking, he drew out a little case and laid a visiting card on the bench within Monica's reach, murmuring her, thank you, she took the bit of pasteboard but did not look at it.

Starting point is 01:22:12 you are on my side of the river he continued still with scrupulous modesty of tone may i not hope to see you some day when you are walking all days and times are the same to me but i am afraid it is only on sunday that you are at leisure yes only on a sunday it took a long time and many circumlocutions but in the end an appointment was made monica would see her acquaintance next sunday evening on the river river-front of Battersea Park. If it rained, then the Sunday after. She was ashamed and confused. Other girls were constantly doing this kind of thing—other girls in business. But it seemed to put her on the level of a servant. And why had she consented? The man could never be anything to her. He was too old, too hard-featured, too grave. Well, on that very account there would be no harm in meeting him. In truth she had not felt the courage to refuse to in a manner he had overawed her.

Starting point is 01:23:16 And perhaps she would not keep the engagement. Nothing compelled her. She had not told him her name, nor the house where she was employed. There was a week to think it over. All days and times were the same to him, he said, and he drove about the country for his pleasure, a man of means. His name, according to the card, was Edmund Whitterson. He was upright in his walk and strongly built,

Starting point is 01:23:42 she noticed this as he moved away from her fearful lest he should turn round her eyes glanced at his figure from moment to moment but he did not once look back and now to god the father the bustle throughout the church wakened her from reverie so complete that she knew not a syllable of the sermon after all she must deceive her sisters by inventing a text and perhaps a comment By an arrangement with Mrs. Coinsby, dinner was down in the parlor to-day. A luxurious meal, moreover, for in her excitement Virginia had resolved to make a feast of Monica's birthday. There was a tiny piece of salmon, a dainty cutlet, and a cold black-current tart. Virginia, at home a constant vegetarian, took no share of the fish and meat, which was only enough for one person. Alice, alone upstairs, made a dinner of gruel. Monica was to be at Queen's Road Chelsea by three o'clock. The sisters hoped she would return

Starting point is 01:24:43 to Lavender Hill with her news, but that was left uncertain, by Monica herself purposely. As an amusement she had decided to keep her promise to Mr. Edmund Whittowson. She was curious to see him again, and receive a new impression of his personality. If he behaved as inoffensively as at Richmond, acquaintance with him might be continued for the variety it brought into her life. If anything unpleasant happened, she had only to walk away. The slight, very slight tremor of anticipation were as reasonably to be prized by a shop-girl at Monsieur's Scotchers. Drawing near to Queen's Road, the wrapped-up keble in her hand, she began to wonder whether Miss Nunn would have any serious proposal to offer. Virginia's report and ecstatic forecasts were,

Starting point is 01:25:29 she knew, not completely trustworthy. Though more than ten years her sister's junior, Monica saw the world with eyes much less disposed to magnify and color ordinary facts. Miss Barfoot was still from home. Rhoda Nunn received the visitor in a pleasant, old-fashioned drawing-room, where there was nothing costly, nothing luxurious. Yet to Monica it appeared richly furnished. A sense of strangeness amid such surroundings had more to do with her constrained silence for the first few minutes than the difficulty with which she recognized in this lady before her,

Starting point is 01:26:03 the Miss Nunn whom she had known years ago. "'I should never have known you,' said Rhoda, equally surprised. "'For one thing you look like a fever patient just recovering. What can be expected? Your sister gave me a shocking account of how you live.' "'The work is very hard.' "'Preposterous. Why do you stay at such a place, Monica?'

Starting point is 01:26:25 "'I am getting experience.' "'To be used in the next world?' They laughed. "'Miss Madden is better. today, I hope." "'Alice?' "'Not much, I'm sorry to say.' "'Will you tell me something more about the—experience you were getting?

Starting point is 01:26:43 For instance, what time has given you for meals?' Rhoda Nun was not the person to manufacture light gossip when a matter of the gravest interest waited for discussion. With a face that expressed thoughtful sympathy she encouraged the girl to speak and confide in her. "'There's twenty minutes for each meal,' Monica explained. But at dinner and tea, one is very likely to be called into the shop before finishing. If you are long away, you find the table cleared. Charming arrangement. No sitting down behind the counter, I suppose.

Starting point is 01:27:17 Oh, of course not. We suffer a great deal from that. Some of us get diseases. A girl has just gone to the hospital with Barracost veins, and two or three others have the same thing in a less troublesome form. Sometimes on Saturday night I lose all feeling in a my feet. I have to stamp on the floor to be sure it's still under me. Ah, that's Saturday night! Yes, it's bad enough now, but at Christmas—there is a week or more of Saturday night, going on to one o'clock in the morning. A girl by me was twice carried out fainting, one night after another.

Starting point is 01:27:52 They gave her brandy, and she came back again. They compelled her to. Well, no, it was her own wish. Her book of takings wasn't very good, poor thing, and if it didn't come up to a certain figure at the end of the week, she would lose her place. She lost it, after all. They told her she was too weak. After Christmas she was lucky enough to get a place as a lady's made at twenty-five pounds

Starting point is 01:28:16 a year. At Scotch's she had fifteen. But we heard that she burst a blood-vessel, and now she's in the hospital at Brompton. Delightful story. Haven't you an early closing day? They had before I went there, but only for about three months. Then the agreement broke down. Like the assistance!

Starting point is 01:28:38 A pity the establishment doesn't follow suit. But you wouldn't say so, Miss Nunn, if you knew how terribly hard it is for many girls to find a place even now. I know it perfectly well, and I wish it were harder. I wish girls fell down and died of hunger in the streets instead of creeping to their garrets and hospitals. I should like to see their dead bodies collected together in some place for the crowd to stare at?"

Starting point is 01:29:03 Monica gazed at her with wide eyes. "'You mean, I suppose, that people would try to reform things? Who knows? Perhaps they might only congratulate each other that a few of the superfluous females had been struck off. Do they give you any summer holiday?' "'A week, with salary continued.' "'Really?

Starting point is 01:29:23 With salary continued! That takes one's breath away. Are many of the girls' ladies?' None at Scotchers. They nearly all come from the country. Several are daughters of small farmers, and those are dreadfully ignorant. One of them asked me the other day in what country Africa was. You don't find them very pleasant company. One or two were nice, girls. Rhoda drew a deep sigh and moved with impatience.

Starting point is 01:29:51 Well, don't you think you've had about enough of it, experience and all? I might go into a country business. It would be easier. But you don't care for the thought. I wish now they had brought me up to something different. Alice and Virginia were afraid of having me trained for a school. You remember that one of our sisters who went through it died of overwork. And I'm not clever, Miss Nunn. I never did much at school.

Starting point is 01:30:18 Rhoda regarded her, smiling gently. You have no inclination to study now? I'm afraid not, replied the other, looking away. "'Certainly I should like to be better educated, but I don't think I could study seriously to earn my living by it. The time for that has gone by.' "'Perhaps so. But there are things you might manage. No doubt your sister told you how I get my living. There's a good deal of employment for women who learn to use a typewriter. Did you ever have piano lessons?' "'No.' No more did I, and I was sorry for it when I went to typewriting. The fingers have to be light and supple and quick. "'Come with me and I'll show you one of the machines.'

Starting point is 01:30:59 They went to a room downstairs, a bare little room by the library. Here were two Remington's, and Roda patiently explained their use. "'One must practice until one can do fifty words a minute at least. I know one or two people who have reached almost twice that speed. It takes a good six months' work to learn for any profitable use. Miss Barfoot takes pupils.' Monica, at first very attentive, was growing absent. Her eyes wandered about the room.

Starting point is 01:31:29 The other observed her closely, and it seemed, doubtfully. "'Do you feel any impulse to try for it?' "'I should have to live for six months without earning anything.' "'That is by no means impossible for you, I think.' "'Not really impossible,' Monica replied with hesitation. Something like dissatisfaction passed over Miss Nunn's face, though she did not allow Monica to see it. Her lips moved in a way that perhaps signified disdain for such timidity. Tolerance was not one of the virtues expressed in her physiognomy.

Starting point is 01:32:05 Let us go back to the drawing-room and have some tea. Monica could not become quite at ease. This energetic woman had little attraction for her. She saw the characteristics which made Virginia enthusiastic, but feared rather than admired them. To put herself in Miss Nun's hands might possibly result in a worse form of bondage than she suffered at the shop. She would never be able to please such a person, and failure, she imagined, would result in more or less contemptuous dismissal. Then, of a sudden, as if she

Starting point is 01:32:37 had divined these thoughts, Rhoda assumed an air of gaiety and frank kindness. "'So it is your birthday? I no longer keep count of mine, and I couldn't tell you without a calculation what I am exactly. It doesn't matter, you see. Thirty-one or fifty-one is much the same for a woman who has made up her mind to live alone and work steadily for a definite object. But you are still a young girl, Monica? My best wishes. Monica emboldened herself to ask what the object was for which her friend worked. How shall I put it?

Starting point is 01:33:10 replied the other, smiling. To make women hard-hearted. Hard-hearted? I think I understand. Do you? You mean that you like to see them unmarried? Roda laughed merrily. You say that almost with resentment.

Starting point is 01:33:28 No, indeed, I didn't intend it. Monica reddened a little. Nothing more natural if you have done. At your age I should have resented it. But—the girl hesitated. Don't you approve of anyone marrying? Oh, I'm not so severe. But do you know that there are half a million more women than men in this happy country of ours?

Starting point is 01:33:51 Half a million! naive alarm again excited Rotter to laughter. Something like that, they say. So many odd women. No making a pair with them. The pessimists call them useless, lost, futile lives. I, naturally, being one of them myself, take another view. I look upon them as a great reserve. When one woman vanishes in matrimony, the reserve offers a substitute for the world's work. True, they are not all trained yet, far from it. I want to help in that, to train the reserve." "'But married women are not idle,' protested Monica earnestly. "'Not all of them. Some cook and rock cradles.'

Starting point is 01:34:38 Again Miss Nunn's mood changed. She laughed the subject away, and abruptly began to talk of old days down in Somerset—of rambles about Cheddar cliffs, or at Glastonbury, or on the Quantox. "'Monika, however, could not listen, and with difficulty commanded her face to a pleasant smile. "'Will you come and see Miss Barfoot?' Roda asked, when it had become clear to her that the girl would gladly get away. "'I am only her subordinate, but I know she will wish to be all the use to you that she can.' Monica expressed her thanks, and promised to act as soon as possible on any invitation that was sent her. She took leave just as the servant announced another caller.

Starting point is 01:35:20 End of Chapter 4. Chapter 5 of the Odd Women This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette. The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 5. The Casual Acquaintance At that corner of Battersea Park which is near Albert Bridge,

Starting point is 01:35:45 there has lain for more than twenty years a curious collection of architectural fragments, chiefly dismembered columns, spread in order upon the ground, and looking like portions of a raised temple. It is the colonnade of old Burlington House, conveyed hither from Piccadilly who knows why, and likely to rest here, the sporting ground for adventurous infants, until its origin is lost in the abyss of time. It was at this spot that Monica had agreed to meet with her casual acquaintance, Edmund Whittowson, and there, from a distance, she saw his lank, upright, well-dressed figure, moving backwards and forwards upon the grass.

Starting point is 01:36:29 Even at the last moment Monica doubted whether to approach. Emotional interest in him she had none, and the knowledge of life she had gained in London assured her that in thus encouraging a perfect stranger she was doing a very hazardous thing. But the evening must somehow be spent, and—and, and—and, in thus encouraging a perfect stranger, she was doing a very hazardous thing. somehow be spent, and if she went off in another direction, it would only be to wander about with an adventurous mind, for her conversation with Miss Nunn had had precisely the opposite effect of that which rhoda doubtless intended. She felt something of the recklessness which formerly excited her wonder when she remarked it in the other shop-girls. She could no longer be without

Starting point is 01:37:10 a male companion, and as she had given her promise to this man. He had seen her. and was coming forward. Today he carried a walking-stick and wore gloves, otherwise his appearance was the same as at Richmond. At the distance of a few yards he raised his hat, not very gracefully. Monica did not offer her hand, nor did Widowson seem to expect it. But he gave proof of an intense pleasure in the meeting. His sallow cheeks grew warm, and in the many wrinkles about his eyes played a singular smile, good-natured, but anxious, apprehensive. "'I am so glad you were able to come,' he said in a low voice, bending towards her. "'It has been even finer than last Sunday,' was Monica's rather vague reply as she glanced

Starting point is 01:38:02 at some people who were passing. "'Yes, a wonderful day, but I only left home an hour ago. Shall we walk this way?' they went along the path by the river widowson exhibited none of the artifices of gallantry practised by men who were in the habit of picking up an acquaintance with shop-girls his smile did not return in extreme sobriety characterized his manner and speech for the most part he kept his eyes on the ground and when silent he had the look of one who inwardly debates a grave question have you been into the country was one of his first inquiries no i spent the morning with my sisters and in the afternoon i had to see a lady in chelsea your sisters are older than yourself yes some years older is it long since you went to live apart from them we have never had a home of our own since i was quite a child and after a moment's hesitation she went on to give a brief account of her history widowson listened with the closest attention his lips twitching now and then his eyes half closed. But for cheekbones that were too prominent and nostrils rather too large, he was not ill-featured. No particular force of character declared itself in his countenance,

Starting point is 01:39:23 and his mode of speech did not suggest a very active brain. Speculating again about his age, Monica concluded that he must be two or three and forty, in spite of the fact that his grizzled beard argued for a higher figure. He had brown hair, untouched by any sort of sign of advanced life, his teeth were white and regular, and something, she could not make clear to her mind exactly what, convinced her that he had a right to judge himself comparatively young. "'I supposed you were not a Londoner,' he said, when she came to a pause. "'How?'

Starting point is 01:40:00 "'Your speech. "'Not,' he added quickly, "'that you have any provincial accent, and even if you had been a Londoner you would not have shown it in that way. He seemed to be reproving himself for a blunder, and after a short silence asked in a tone of kindness, "'Do you prefer the town?' "'In some ways, not in all. I am glad you have relatives here, and friends. So many young ladies come up from the country who were quite alone.' "'Yes, many.'

Starting point is 01:40:33 Their progress to familiarity could hardly have been slower. Now and then they spoke with a formal coldness which threatened absolute silence. Monica's brain was so actively at work that she lost consciousness of the people who were moving about them, and at times her companion was scarcely more to her than a voice. They had walked along the whole front of the park, and were near Chelsea Bridge. Widowson gazed at the pleasure-boats lying below on the strand, and said diffidently, "'Would you care to go on the river?' The proposal was so unexpected that Monica looked up with a startled air. She had not thought of the man as likely to offer any kind of amusement. "'It would be pleasant, I think,' he added.

Starting point is 01:41:18 "'The tide is still running up. We might go very quietly for a mile or two, and be back as soon as you like.' "'Yes, I should like it.' He brightened up, and moved with a livelier step. In a few minutes they had chosen their boat, had pushed off, and were gliding to the middle of the broad water. Widowson managed the skulls without awkwardness, but by no means like a man well trained in this form of exercise. On sitting down he had taken off his hat, stowed it away, and put on a little travelling cap which he drew from his pocket. Monica thought this became him. After all, he was not a companion to be ashamed of. She looked with pleasure at his white, hairy hands with their firm grip, then at his boots—very good boots, indeed. He had gold-length

Starting point is 01:42:06 in his white shirt-cuffs, and a gold watch-guard chosen with a gentleman's taste. "'I am at your service,' he said with an approach to gaiety. "'Direct me. Shall we go quickly, some distance, or only just a little quicker than the tide would float us?' "'Which you like. To row much would make you too hot.' "'You would like to go some distance, I see.' "'No, no, do exactly what you like. Of course we must be back in an hour or two.' He drew out his watch.

Starting point is 01:42:39 "'It's now ten minutes past six, and there is daylight till nine or after. When do you wish to be home?' "'Not much later than nine,' Monica answered, with the insincerity of prudence. "'Then we will just go quietly along. I wish we could have started early in the afternoon. But that may be for another day, I hope.' On her lap Monica had the little brown paper parcel which contained her present. She saw that widowson glanced at it from time to time, but she could not bring

Starting point is 01:43:12 herself to explain what it was. I was very much afraid that I should not see you to-day," he said, as they glided softly by Chelsea embankment. "'But I promised to come if it was fine.' "'Yes, I feared something might prevent you. You were very kind to give me your company.' He was looking at the tips of her little boots. I can't say how I thank you." Much embarrassed, Monica could only gaze at one of the skulls as it rose and fell the water

Starting point is 01:43:42 dripping from it in bright beads. "'Last year,' he pursued, "'I went on the river two or three times, but alone. This year I haven't been in a boat till to-day.' "'You prefer driving?' "'Oh, it's only chance. I do drive a great deal, however. I wish it were possible to take you through the splendid country I saw a day or two ago, down in Surrey.

Starting point is 01:44:07 Perhaps some day you will let me. I live a rather lonely life, as you see. I have a housekeeper. No relative lives with me. My only relative in London is a sister-in-law, and we very seldom meet. But you don't employ yourself in any way. I am very idle, but that's partly because I have worked very hard and hopelessly all my life, a year and a half ago. I began to earn my own living when I was fourteen, and now I am forty-four.

Starting point is 01:44:38 Today." "'This is your birthday,' said Monica, with an odd look the other could not understand. "'Yes, I only remembered it a few hours ago. Strange that such a treat should have been provided for me.' "'Yes, I am very idle. A year and a half ago my only brother died. He had been very successful in life, and he left me what I regard as a fortune, though it was only a small part of what he had. The listener's heart throbbed.

Starting point is 01:45:08 Without intending it, she pulled the tiller so that the boat began to turn towards land. The left hand a little, said Widowson, smiling correctly. That's right. Many days I don't leave home. I am fond of reading, and now I make up for all the time lost in years gone by. Do you care for books?" I never read very much, and I feel very ignorant.

Starting point is 01:45:35 But that is only for want of opportunity, I'm sure." He glanced at the brown paper parcel. Acting on an impulse which perturbed her, Monica began to slip off the loosely tied string and to unfold the paper. "'I thought it was a book,' exclaimed widowson merrily, when she had revealed a part of her present. "'When you told me your name—' said Monica. I ought perhaps to have told you mine. It's written here. My sisters gave me this

Starting point is 01:46:05 to-day." She offered the little volume. He took it as though it were something fragile, and, the skulls fixed under his elbows, turned to the fly-leaf. "'What? It is your birthday?' "'Yes. I am twenty-one. "'Will you let me shake hands with you?' His pressure of her fingers was the lightest possible. "'Now that's rather a strange thing, isn't it? Oh, I remember this book very well,

Starting point is 01:46:34 though I haven't seen it or heard of it for twenty years. My mother used to read it on Sundays. And it is really your birthday? I am more than twice your age, Miss Madden.' This last remark was uttered anxiously, mournfully. Then, as if to reassure himself by exerting physical strength, he drove the boat along with half a dozen vigorous strokes. Monica was rustling over the pages, but without seeing them.

Starting point is 01:47:03 "'I don't think,' said her companion presently. "'You are very well contented with your life in that house of business.' "'No, I am not.' "'I have heard a good deal of the hardships of such a life. Will you tell me something about yours?' "'Reedly she gave him a sketch of her existence from Sunday to Sunday, but without indignation, and as if the subject had no great interest for her. "'You must be very strong,' was Widowson's comment.

Starting point is 01:47:33 "'The lady I went to see this afternoon told me I looked ill. Of course I can see the effects of overwork. My wonder is that you endure it at all? Is that lady an old acquaintance?' Monica answered with all necessary detail, and went on to mention the proposal that had been made to her. The hearer reflected, and put further questions. Unwilling to speak of the little capital she possessed, Monica told him that her sisters

Starting point is 01:48:00 might perhaps help her to live whilst she was learning a new occupation. But Whittowson had become abstracted. He ceased pulling, crossed his arms on the oars, and watched other boats that were near. Two deep wrinkles, rippling in their course, had formed across his forehead, and his eyes widened in a gaze of complete abstraction at the farther shore. Yes, fell from him at length, as though in continuation of something he had been saying. I began to earn my bread when I was fourteen. My father was an auctioneer at Brighton. A few years after his marriage he had a bad illness, which left him completely deaf.

Starting point is 01:48:40 His partnership with another man was dissolved, and as things went worse and worse with him, my mother started a lodging-house, which somehow supported us for a long time. She was a sensible, good, and brave woman. I'm afraid my father had good many faults that made her life hard. He was of a violent temper, and of course the deafness didn't improve it. Well, one day a cab knocked him down in the King's Road, and from that injury, though not until a year after, he died. There were only two children. I was the elder.

Starting point is 01:49:15 My mother couldn't keep me at school very long, so at fourteen I was sent into the office of the man who had been my father's partner to serve him and learn the business. I did serve him for years, and for next to no payment, but he taught me nothing more than he could help. He was one of those heartless, utterly selfish men that one meets too often in the business world. I ought never to have been sent there, for my father had always an ill opinion of him. But he pretended a friendly interest.

Starting point is 01:49:45 in me. Just, I am convinced, to make the use of me that he did." He was silent and began rowing again. What happened then?" asked Monica. "'I mustn't make out that I was a faultless boy,' he continued, with the smile that graved wrinkles about his eyes. Quite the opposite. I had a good deal of my father's temper.

Starting point is 01:50:08 I often behaved very badly to my mother. What I needed was some stern but conscientious man to look after me. and make me work. In my spare time I lay about on the shore, or got into mischief with other boys. It needed my mother's death to make a more sensible fellow of me, and by that time it was too late. I mean I was too old to be trained into profitable business habits. Up to nineteen I had been little more than an errand and office-boy, and all through the after years I never got a much better position. "'I can't understand that,' remarked Monica thoughtfully.

Starting point is 01:50:45 Why not? You seem to—to be the kind of man that would make your way? Do I?" The description pleased him. He laughed cheerfully. But I never found what my way was to be. I have always hated office-work, and business of every kind. Yet I could never see an opening in any other direction.

Starting point is 01:51:08 I have been all my life a clerk, like so many thousands of other men. Nowadays, if I happen to be in the city when all the clerks are coming away from business, I feel an inexpressible pity for them. I feel I should like to find two or three of the hardest driven, and just divide my superfluous income between. A clerk's life! A life of the office without any hope of rising! That is a hideous fate!

Starting point is 01:51:38 But your brother got on well. Why didn't he help you? We couldn't agree. We always quarrelled. "'Are you really so ill-tempered?' It was asked in Monica's most naive tone, with a serious air of investigation which at first confused Widowson, then made him laugh. "'Since I was a lad,' he replied, "'I have never quarrelled with anyone except my brother. I think it's only very unreasonable people that irritate me.

Starting point is 01:52:06 Some men have told me that I was far too easy-going, too good-natured. Certainly I desire to be good-natured, but I don't. I don't easily make friends. As a rule, I can't talk to strangers. I keep so much to myself that those who know me only a little think me surly and unsociable. So your brother always refused to help you?" It wasn't easy for him to help me. He got into a stockbroker's, and went on step by step until he had saved a little money. Then he speculated in all sorts of ways. He couldn't employ me himself, and if he could have done so we should never have got on to

Starting point is 01:52:44 got on together, it was impossible for him to recommend me to anyone except as a Clark. He was a born money-maker. I'll give you an example of how he grew rich. In consequence of some mortgage business he came into possession of a field at Clapham. As late as 1875 this field brought him only a rent of forty pounds. It was freehold property, and he refused many offers of purchase. Well, in 1885, the year before he died, the ground rents from that fee yield, now covered with houses, were seven hundred and ninety pounds a year. That's how men get on

Starting point is 01:53:21 who have capital and know how to use it. If I had had capital, it would never have yielded me more than three or four percent. I was doomed to work for other people who were growing rich. It doesn't matter much now, except that so many years of life have been lost. Had your brother any children? No children. All the same it astonished me when I heard his way. I had expected nothing. In one day—in one hour—I passed from slavery to freedom, from poverty to more than comfort. We never hated each other—I don't want you to think that."

Starting point is 01:53:58 But didn't it bring you friends as well as comfort? Oh! he laughed. I am not so rich as to have people pressing for my acquaintance. I have only about six hundred a year. I drew in her breath silently, then gazed at the distance. No, I haven't made any new friends. The one or two men I care for are not much better off than I used to be, and I always feel ashamed to ask them to come and see me.

Starting point is 01:54:25 Perhaps they think I shun them because of their position, and I don't know how to justify myself. Life has always been full of worrying problems for me. I can't take things in the simple way that comes natural to other men." "'Don't you think we ought to be turning back? Mr. Whittison?" "'Yes, we will. I am sorry the time go so quickly.'

Starting point is 01:54:47 When a few minutes had passed in silence he asked, "'Do you feel that I am no longer quite a stranger to you, Miss Madden?' "'Yes, you have told me so much.' "'It's very kind of you to listen so patiently. I wish I had more interesting things to tell, but you see what a dull life mine has been.' He paused, and let the boat waver on the street. for a moment. When I dared to speak to you last Sunday, I had only the faintest hope that you would grant

Starting point is 01:55:17 me your acquaintance. You can't, I am sure, repent, of having done me that kindness. One never knows. I doubted whether I ought to talk with a stranger. Rightly, quite rightly. It was my perseverance. You saw, I hope, that I could never dream of giving you offence. The rule is necessary, but you see there may be exceptional cases.

Starting point is 01:55:41 He was giving a lazy stroke now and then, which, as the tide was still, just moved the boat onwards. I saw something in your face that compelled me to speak to you. And now we may really be friends, I hope. Yes, I can think of you as a friend, Mr. Whittison. A large boat was passing with four or five young men and girls who sang in good time and tune. Only a song of the music-hall or of the nigger minstrels, but it was passing with four or

Starting point is 01:56:11 It sounded pleasantly with the plash of the oars. A fine sunset had begun to glow upon the river, its warmth gave a tone to Monica's thin cheeks. "'And you will let me see you again before long. Let me drive you to Hampton Court next Sunday, or any place that you would choose. Very likely I shall be invited to my friends in Chelsea.' "'Do you seriously think of leaving the shop?' "'I don't know. I must have time to think about it.'

Starting point is 01:56:40 "'Yes. Yes, but if I write a line to you, say on Friday, would you let me know whether you can come? Please let me refuse for next Sunday, the one after, perhaps." He bent his head, looked desperately grave, and drove the boat on. Monica was disturbed, but held to her resolution, which Widowson silently accepted. The rest of the way they exchanged only brief sentences, about the beauty of the sky, the scenes on river or bank, or— other impersonal matters. After landing they walked in silence towards Chelsea Bridge.

Starting point is 01:57:16 "'Now I must go quickly home,' said Monica. "'But how?' "'By train. From York Road to Woolworth Road.' Widowson cast a curious glance at her. One would have imagined that he found something to disapprove in this ready knowledge of London transit. "'I will go with you to the station, then.' Without a word spoken, they walked the short distance to York Road. Monica took her ticket, and offered a hand for good-bye.

Starting point is 01:57:46 "'I may write to you,' said Widowson, his face set in an expression of anxiety, "'and make an appointment, if possible, for the Sunday after next. "'I shall be glad to come, if I can.' "'It will be a very long time to me.' With a faint smile, Monica hurried away to the platform. In the train she looked like one whose mind is occupied with grave trouble. Fatigue had suddenly overcome her. She leaned back and closed her eyes. At a street corner very near to Monsieur Scotter's establishment, she was intercepted

Starting point is 01:58:21 by a tall, showily-dressed, rather coarse-featured girl, who seemed to have been loitering about. It was Miss Ead. "'I want to speak to you, Miss Madden. Where did you go with Mr. Bullivant this morning?' The voice could not have been more distinctive of a London shop-girl, its tone signified irritation. "'With Mr. Bullivant, I went nowhere with him.' "'But I saw you both get into the bus in Kennington Park Road.' "'Did you?'

Starting point is 01:58:49 Monika returned coldly. "'I can't help it if Mr. Bullivant happened to be going the same way.' "'Oh, very well! I thought you was to be trusted. It's nothing to me.' "'You behave very foolishly, Miss Ede,' exclaimed the other, whose nerves at this moment would not allow her to use patience with the jealous girl. I can only tell you that I have never thought again to Mr. Bullivin'n, since he left the bus somewhere

Starting point is 01:59:13 and Clapham Road. I'm tired of talking about such things. Now, see, here, don't be cross. Come and walk a bit and tell me. I'm too tired, and there's nothing whatever to tell you. Oh, well, if you're going to be nasty—' Monica walked on, but the girl caught up. Don't be so sharp with me, Miss Madden. I don't say as you wanted him to go into the bus with you. But you might tell me what he had to say." Nothing at all, except that he wished to know where I was going, which was no business

Starting point is 01:59:44 of his. I did what I could for you. I told him that if he asked you to go up the river with him I felt sure you wouldn't refuse. Oh, you did?" Miss Ead threw up her head. I don't think it was a very delicate thing to say. You are very unreasonable. I myself don't think it was very delicate.

Starting point is 02:00:03 But haven't you worried me to say something of the kind?" "'No, that I'm sure I haven't. Worried you indeed.' "'Then please, never speak to me on the subject again. I'm tired of it.' And what did he say when you'd said that?' "'I can't remember.' "'Oh, you are nasty to-day. Really you are. If it had been the other way about, I'd never have treated you like this, that I wouldn't.' "'Good night.'

Starting point is 02:00:29 They were close to the door by which Monsieur Scotcher's resident implored. entered at night. Monica had taken out her latch-key. But Miss Ead could not endure the thought of being left in torturing ignorance. "'Do tell me,' she whispered. "'I'll do anything for you I can. Don't be unkind, Miss Madden.' Monica turned back again. "'If I were you I wouldn't be so silly. I can't do more than assure you and promise you that I shall never listen to Mr. Bullivant.' "'But what did he say about me, dear?'

Starting point is 02:01:01 Nothing. Miss Ead kept a mortified silence. You had much better not think of him at all. I would have more pride. I wish I could make you see him as I do. And he did really speak about me. I would do wish you'd find someone to go out with, then perhaps. Monica stood still, hesitated, and at length said,

Starting point is 02:01:24 Well, I have found some one. You have? The girl all but danced with joy. You really have? yes so now don't trouble me any more this time she was allowed to turn back and enter the house no one else had yet come in monica ate a mouthful of bread and cheese which was in readiness on the long table down in the basement and at once went to bed but no welcome drowsiness fell upon her at half-past eleven when two of the other five girls who slept in the room made their appearance she was still changing uneasily from side to side they lit the gas it was not turned off till midnight after which hour the late arrivals had to use a candle of their own procuring and began a lively conversation on the events of the day afraid of being obliged to talk monica feigned sleep at twelve just as the gas went out another pair came to repose they had been quarrelling and were very gloomy after a long and acrimonious discussion in the dark as to which of them should find a candle it ended in one of the girls who was in bed

Starting point is 02:02:30 impatiently supplying a light. They began sullenly to throw off their garments. "'Is Miss Madden awake?' said one of them, looking in Monica's direction. There was no reply. "'She's picked up some fella to-day,' continued the speaker, lowering her voice, and glancing round at her companions with a grin. Or else she's at him all along. I shouldn't wonder.' Heads were put forward eagerly, and inquiries whispered, "'He's oldish, I should say. A caught sight of them just as they was going. going off in a boat from Battersea Park, but he couldn't see his face very well. He looked rather like Mr. Thomas. Mr. Thomas was a member of the drapery firm, a man of fifty, ugly,

Starting point is 02:03:11 and austere. At this description the listeners giggled and uttered exclamations. "'Was he as well?' asked one. "'Shouldn't wonder if he was. You can trust Miss M. to keep her eyes open. She's one of the sly and quietans.' "'Oh, is she?' murmured another enviously. just one of those who gets made a fool of. That's my opinion." The point was argued for some minutes. It led to talk about Miss Ede, who was treated with frank contempt because of her ill-discuised pursuit of a mere counterman. These other

Starting point is 02:03:45 damsels had, at present, more exalted views, for they were all younger than Miss Ead. Just before one o'clock, when silence had rained for a quarter of an hour, there entered with much bustle the last occupant of the bedroom. She was a young woman with a morally unenviable reputation, though some of her colleagues certainly envied her. Money came to her with remarkable readiness whenever she had need of it. As usual she began to talk very loud, at first with innocent vulgarity. Exciting a little laughter, she became anecdotic and very scandalous. It took her a long time to disrobe, and when the candle was out, she still had her richest story

Starting point is 02:04:23 to relate—of point so rabelaisian that one or two voices made themselves heard in serious protest. The gifted anecdotist replied with a long laugh, then cried, Gnight young ladies, and sank peacefully to slumber. As for Monica, she saw the white dawn peep at the window, and closed her tear-stained eyes only when the life of a new week had begun noisily in Walworth Road. End of Chapter 5. Chapter 6 of the Odd Women This Librevox recording is in the public domain.

Starting point is 02:05:03 Recording by Elizabeth Clette The Odd Women by George Gissing Chapter 6 A Camp of the Reserve In consequence of letters exchanged during the week, next Sunday brought the three Miss Maddens to Queen's Road to lunch with Miss Barfoot. Alice had recovered from her cold, but was still ailing,

Starting point is 02:05:25 and took rather a gloomy view of the situation she had lately reviewed with such courage. Virginia maintained her enthusiastic faith in Miss Nuss. none, and was prepared to reverence Miss Barfoot with hardly less fervor. Both of them found it difficult to understand their younger sister, who, in her letters, had betrayed distaste for the change of career proposed to her. They were received with the utmost kindness, and all greatly enjoyed their afternoon, for not even Monica's prejudice against a house, which in her own mind she had stigmatized as—an old maid-factory—could resist the charm of the hostess.

Starting point is 02:06:05 Though Miss Farfoot had something less than a woman's average stature, the note of her presence was personal dignity. She was handsome, and her carriage occasionally betrayed a consciousness of the fact. According to circumstances, she bore herself as the lady of aristocratic tastes, as a genial woman of the world, or as a fervid prophetess of female emancipation, and each character was supported with a spontaneity, a good-natured confidence which inspired liking and respect. A brilliant complexion and eyes that sparkled with habitual cheerfulness gave her the benefit of doubt when her age was in question. Her style of dress, gracefully ornate, would have led a stranger to presume her a wedded lady of some distinction. Yet Mary Barfoot

Starting point is 02:06:52 had known many troubles, poverty among them. Her experiences and struggles bore a close resemblance to those which rode a nun had gone through, and the time of trial had lasted longer. Mental and moral stamina would have assured her against such evils of celibacy as appeared in the elder Maddens, but it was to a change of worldly fortune that she owed this revival of youthful spirit and energy in middle life. "'You and I must be friends,' she said to Monica, holding the girl's soft little hand. "'We are both black but comely.' The compliment to herself seemed the most natural thing in the world.

Starting point is 02:07:31 Monica blushed with pleasure and could not help laughing. It was all but decided that Monica should become a pupil at the school in Great Portland Street. In a brief private conversation, Miss Barfoot offered to lend her the money that might be needful. "'Nothing but a business transaction, Miss Madden, you can give me security. You will repay me at your convenience. If, in the end, this occupation doesn't please you, you will at all events have regained health. It is clear to me that you mustn't go. one in that dreadful place you described to Miss Nunn.' The visitors took their leave at about

Starting point is 02:08:07 five o'clock. "'Poor things! Poor things!' sighed Miss Barfoot when she was alone with her friend. "'What can we possibly do for the older ones?' "'They are excellent creatures,' said Rhoda. "'Kind, innocent women, but useful for nothing except what they have done all their lives. The eldest can't teach seriously, but she can't keep young children out of mischief and give them a nice way of speaking. Her health is breaking down you can see. Poor woman! One of the saddest types! Decidedly. Virginia isn't quite so depressing. But how childish? They all strike me as childish. Monica is a dear little girl. It seemed a great absurdity to talk to her about business. Of course she must find a husband.

Starting point is 02:08:58 I suppose so. Roda's tone of slighting concession amused her companion. My dear, after all we don't desire the end of the race. No, I suppose not, Roda admitted with a laugh. A word of caution. Your zeal is eating you up. At this rate you will hinder our purpose. We have no mission to prevent girls from marrying suitably,

Starting point is 02:09:24 only to see that those who can't shall have a means of living-wereign-werecting with some satisfaction?" What chance is there that this girl will marry suitably? Oh, who knows! At all events there will be more likelihood of it if she comes into our sphere? Really? Do you know any man that would dream of marrying her? Perhaps not, at present.

Starting point is 02:09:48 It was clear that Miss Barfoot stood in some danger of becoming subordinate to her more vehement friend. Her little body, for all its natural dignity, put her at a disadvantage in the presence of Rhoda, who towered above her with rather imperious stateliness. Her suavity was no match for Rhoda's vigorous abruptness, but the two were very fond of each other, and by this time thought themselves able safely to dispense with the forms at first imposed by their mutual relations. "'If she marry at all,' declared Miss Nunn, "'she will marry badly. The family is branded.

Starting point is 02:10:23 They belong to the class we know so well, with no social position, and unable to to win an individual one. I must find a name for that ragged regiment." Miss Barfoot regarded her friend thoughtfully. "'Roda, what comfort have you for the poor in spirit?' "'None whatever, I'm afraid. My mission is not to them.' After a pause, she added, "'they have their religious faith, I suppose, and it's answerable for a good deal.' "'It would be a terrible responsibility to rob them of it,'

Starting point is 02:10:57 remarked the elder woman gravely. Rhoda made a gesture of impatience. It's a terrible responsibility to do anything at all. But I'm glad, she laughed scornfully, that it's not my task to release them. Mary Barfoot mused, a compassionate shadow on her fine face. I don't think we can do without the spirit of that religion, she said at length.

Starting point is 02:11:22 The essential human spirit—these poor women—one or one or one ought to be very tender with them. I don't like your ragged regiment phrase. When I grow old and melancholy, I think I shall devote myself to poor, hopeless and purposeless women. Try to warm their hearts a little before they go hence. Admiral, murmured Rhoda, smiling. But in the meantime they cumber us.

Starting point is 02:11:49 We have to fight. She threw forward her arms, as though with spear and buckler. Miss Barfoot was smiling at this pallid in attitude when a servant announced two ladies, Mrs. Smallbrook and Miss Haven. They were aunt and niece, the former a tall, ungainly, sharp-featured widow, the latter, a sweet-faced, gentle, sensible-looking girl of five and twenty. "'I am so glad you were back again,' exclaimed the widow as she shook hands with Miss Barfoot, speaking in a hard, unsympathetic voice. I do so want to ask your advice about an interesting girl

Starting point is 02:12:24 who has applied to me. I'm afraid her past won't bear looking into, but most certainly she is a reformed character. Winifred is most favourably impressed with her." Miss Haven, the Winifred in question, began to talk apart with Rhoda Nun. "'I do wish my aunt wouldn't exaggerate so,' she said in a subdued voice, whilst Mrs. Smallbrook still talked loudly and urgently. I never said that I was favourably impressed. The girl protests far too much. She has is played on aunt's weaknesses, I fear. But who is she?

Starting point is 02:12:59 Oh, someone who lost her character long ago, and lives, I should say, on charitable people. Just because I said that she must once have had a very nice face, Aunt misrepresents me in this way. It's too bad." Is she an educated person?" Miss Barfoot was heard to ask. "'Not precisely well educated.' "'Of the lower classes, then.

Starting point is 02:13:24 I don't like that term, you know, of the poorer classes." She never was a lady, put in Miss Haven quietly but decidedly. "'Then I fear I can be of no use,' said the hostess, betraying some of her secret satisfaction and being able thus to avoid Mrs. Smallbrook's request. Winifred, a pupil at Great Portland Street, was much liked by both her teachers. But the aunt, with her ceaseless philanthropy at other people's expense, could only be considered a bore. "'But surely you don't limit your humanity, Miss Barfoot,

Starting point is 02:13:59 by the artificial divisions of society?' "'I think those divisions are anything but artificial,' replied the hostess good-humouredly. "'In the uneducated classes I have no interest whatever. You have heard me say so.' "'Yes, but I cannot think. Isn't that just a little narrow?' "'Perhaps so.

Starting point is 02:14:21 I choose my sphere, that's all.' let those work for the lower classes i must call them lower for they are in every sense let those work for them who have a call to do so i have none i must keep to my own class but surely miss none cried the widow turning to rhoda we work for the abolition of all unjust privilege to us is not a woman a woman i am obliged to agree with miss barfoot i think that as soon as we begin to meddle with uneducated people all our schemes and views are unsettled. We have to learn a new language, for one thing. But your missionary enterprise is admirable." "'For my part,' declared Mrs. Smallbrook, "'I aim at the solidarity of women. You, at all events agree with me, Winifred?' "'I really don't think, aunt, that there can be any solidarity of ladies with servant-girls,'

Starting point is 02:15:14 responded Miss Haven, encouraged by a look from Rhoda. "'Then I grieve that your charity falls so far below the Christian standard.' Miss Barfoot firmly guided the conversation to a more hopeful subject. Not many people visited this house. Every Wednesday evening, from half-past eight to eleven, Miss Barfoot was at home to any of her acquaintances, including her pupils, who chose to call upon her. But this was in the nature of an association with recognized objects. Of society in the common sense, Miss Barfoot saw very little. She had no time to sacrifice in the pursuit of idle ceremonies. By the successive deaths of two relatives, a widowed sister and an uncle,

Starting point is 02:15:59 she had come into possession of a modest fortune. But no thought of a life such as would have suggested itself to most women in her place ever tempted her. Her studies had always been of a very positive nature. Her abilities were of a kind uncommon in women, or at all events very rarely developed in one of her sex. She could have managed a large and complicated business, could have filled a place on a board of directors, have taken an active part in municipal government, nay, perchance, in national. And this turn of intellect consisted with many traits of character, so strongly feminine, that people who knew her best thought of her with as much tenderness as admiration. She did not seek to become known as a leader of the movement, yet her quiet

Starting point is 02:16:43 work was probably more effectual than the public career of women who propagandized for female emancipation. Her aim was to draw from the overstocked profession of teaching as many capable young women as she could lay hands on, and to fit them for certain of the pursuits nowadays thrown open to their sex. She held the conviction that whatever man could do, woman could do equally well. Those tasks only accepted which demand great physical strength. At her instance, and with help from her purse, two girls were preparing themselves to be pharmaceutical chemists. Two others had been aided by her to open a bookseller's shop, and several who had Clark ships in view received an admirable training at her school in Great Portland Street.

Starting point is 02:17:27 Thither every weekday morning Miss Barfoot and Rhoda repaired. They arrived at nine o'clock, and within an hour's interval, work went on until five. Entering by the private door of a picture-cleaner's shop, they ascended to the second story, where two rooms had been furnished like comfortable offices. Two small small, on the floor above served for dressing-rooms. In one of the offices, typewriting and occasionally other kinds of work that demanded intelligence were carried on by three or four young women regularly employed. To superintend this department was Miss Nunn's chief duty, together with business correspondence under the principal's direction. In the second room Miss Barfoot instructed her pupils,

Starting point is 02:18:09 never more than three being with her at a time. A bookcase full of works on the woman question and allied topics served as a circulating library. Volumes were lent without charge to the members of this little society. Once a month Miss Barfoot or Miss Nunn by turns gave a brief address on some set subject. The hour was four o'clock, and about a dozen hearers generally assembled. Both worked very hard. Miss Barfoot did not look upon her enterprise as a source of pecuniary profit, but she had made the establishment more than self-supporting. Her pupil increased in number, and the working department promised occupation for a larger staff than was at present engaged.

Starting point is 02:18:51 The young women in general answered their friend's expectations, but of course there were disappointing instances. One of these had caused Miss Barfoot special distress. A young girl whom she had released from a life of much hardship, and who, after a couple of months' trial, bade fair to develop noteworthy ability, of a sudden disappeared. She was without relatives in London, and Miss Barfoot's endeavors to find her proved for several weeks very futile. Then came news of her. She was living as the mistress of a married man. Every effort was made to bring her back, but the girl resisted.

Starting point is 02:19:26 Presently she again passed out of sight, and now more than a year had elapsed since Miss Barfoot's last interview with her. This Monday morning, among letters delivered at the house, was one from the strayed girl. Miss Barfoot read it in private, and throughout the day remained unusually grave. At five o'clock, when staff and pupils had all departed, she sat for a while in meditation, then spoke to Rhoda, who was glancing over a book by the window. "'Here's a letter I should like you to read. Something that has been troubling you since morning, isn't it?' "'Yes.'

Starting point is 02:20:02 Rhoda took the sheet and quickly ran through its contents. Her face hardened, and she threw down the letter with a smile of contempt. "'What do you advise?' asked the older woman, closely observing her. An answer in two lines, with a check enclosed if you see fit. Does that really meet the case? More than meets it, I should say. Miss Barfoot pondered.

Starting point is 02:20:28 I am doubtful. That is a letter of despair, and I can't close my ears to it. You had an affection for the girl. Help her by all means if you feel compelled to. But you would hardly dream of taking her back to. again?" "'That's the point. Why shouldn't I?'

Starting point is 02:20:46 "'For one thing,' replied Rhoda, looking coldly down upon her friend. "'You will never do any good with her. For another she isn't a suitable companion for the girls she would meet here.' "'I can't be sure of either objection. She acted with deplorable rashness, with infatuation, but I never discovered any sign of evil in her. Did you?' "'Eval?

Starting point is 02:21:10 What does the word mean? I am not a Puritan, and I don't judge her as the ordinary woman would. But I think she has put herself altogether beyond our sympathy. She was twenty-two years old, no child, and she acted with her eyes open. No deceit was practised with her. She knew the man had a wife, and she was base enough to accept a share of his attentions. Do you advocate polygamy? That is an intelligible position, I admit.

Starting point is 02:21:37 It is one way of meeting the social difficulty, but not mine. "'My dear Rhoda, don't enrage yourself. I will try not to.' "'But I can't see the temptation to do so. Come sit down and talk quietly. No, I have no fondness for polygamy. I find it very hard to understand how she could act as she did. But a mistake, however wretched, mustn't condemn a woman for life.

Starting point is 02:22:07 That's the way of the world, and decidedly it mustn't be ours. On this point I practically agree with the world." "'I see you do. And it astonishes me. You are going through curious changes in several respects. A year ago you didn't speak of her like this. Partly because I didn't know you well enough to speak my mind. Partly, yes, I have changed a good deal, no doubt. But I should never have proposed to take her by the hand and let bygones be bygones. That is an amiable impulse. but anti-social. A favourite word on your lips just now, Rhoda,

Starting point is 02:22:47 why is it anti-social? Because one of the supreme social needs of our days the education of women in self-respect and self-restraint. There are plenty of people, men, chiefly, but a few women also of a certain temperament, who cry for a reckless individualism in these matters. They would tell you that she behaved laudably, that she was living out herself,

Starting point is 02:23:11 and things of that kind. But I didn't think you shared such views. I don't, altogether. The education of women in self-respect. Very well. Here is a poor woman who self-respect has given way under grievous temptation. Circumstances have taught her that she made a wild mistake. The man gives her up and bids her live as she can.

Starting point is 02:23:35 She is induced to beggary. Now in that position a girl is tempted to sink, further. The letter of two lines, an enclosed check, would as likely as not plunge her into depths from which she could never be rescued. It would assure her that there was no hope. On the other hand, we have it in our power to attempt that very education of which you speak. She has brains, and doesn't belong to the vulgar. It seems to me that you are moved by illogical impulses, and certainly anything but kind ones." Roda only grew more stubborn.

Starting point is 02:24:12 "'You say she yielded to a grievous temptation. What temptation? Will it bear putting into words?' "'Oh, yes, I think it will,' answered Miss Barfoot with her gentlest smile. "'She fell in love with the man.' "'Fell in love!' Concentration of scorn was in this echo. "'Oh, for what isn't that phrase responsible?' rhoda let me ask you a question on which i have never ventured do you know what it is to be in love miss nun's strong features were moved as if by a suppressed laugh the colour of her cheeks grew very slightly warm i am a normal human being she answered with an impatient gesture i understand perfectly well what the phrase signifies that is no answer my dear have you ever been in love with any man "'Yes, when I was fifteen.'

Starting point is 02:25:10 "'And not since,' rejoined the other, shaking her head and smiling. "'No, not since.' "'Thank heaven, no.' "'Then you are not very well able to judge this case. "'I, on the other hand, can judge it with the very largest understanding.' "'Don't smile so witheringly, Rhoda. "'I shall neglect your advice for once. You will bring this girl back, and continue teaching her as before.

Starting point is 02:25:40 We have no one here that knows her, and with prudence she need never be talked about by those of our friends who did. Oh, weak! Weak! Week! For once I must act independently. Yes, and at a stroke change the whole character of your work. You never proposed keeping a reformatory. Your aim is to help chosen girls, who promised

Starting point is 02:26:05 to be of some use in the world. This Miss Royston represents the profitless average. No, she is below the average. Are you so blind as to imagine that any good will ever come of such a person? If you wish to save her from the streets do so by all means. But to put her among your chosen pupils is to threaten your whole undertaking. Let it once become known, and it would become known, that a girl of that character came here, and your usefulness is at an end.

Starting point is 02:26:35 In a year's time you'll have to choose between giving up the school altogether and making it a refuge for outcasts." Miss Barfoot was silent. She tapped with her fingers on the table. Personal feeling is misleading you, Rhoda pursued. Miss Royston had a certain cleverness, I grant. But do you think I didn't know that she would never become what you hoped? All her spare time was given to novel reading.

Starting point is 02:26:59 If every novelist could be strangled and thrown into the sea, we should have some chance of reforming women. The girl's nature was corrupted with sentimentality, like that of all but every woman who is intelligent enough to read what is called the best fiction, but not intelligent enough to understand its vice. Love! Love! love! love! A sickening sameness of vulgarity! What is more vulgar than the ideal of novelists? They won't represent the actual world. It would be too dull for their readers! In real life how many men and women fall in love?

Starting point is 02:27:34 Not one in every ten thousand, I am convinced. Not one married, parent, ten thousand have felt for each other as two or three couples do in every novel. There is the sexual instinct, of course, but that is quite a different thing. The novelist Darylain talk about that. The poultry creatures Daren't tell the one truth that would be profitable. The result is that women imagine themselves noble and glorious when they are most near the animals. This, Miss Royston, when she rushed off to perdition, tend to to one she had in mind some idiot heroine in a book.

Starting point is 02:28:08 Oh, I tell you that you were losing sight of your first duty. There are people enough to act the good Samaritan. You have quite another task in life. It is your work to train and encourage girls in a path as far as possible from that of the husband-hunter. Let them marry later, if they must. But at all events you will have cleared their views on the subject of marriage, and put them in a position to judge the man who offers himself.

Starting point is 02:28:33 you will have taught them that marriage is an alliance of intellects, not a means of support, or something more ignoble still. But to do this with effect you must show yourself relentless to female imbecility. If a girl gets to know that you have received back such a person as Miss Royston, she will be corrupted by your spirit of charity, corrupted at all events for our purposes. The endeavour to give women a new soul is so difficult that we can't be cumbered by side tasks, such as fishing foolish people out of the mud they have walked into. Charity for human weakness is all very well in its place, but it is precisely one of the virtues

Starting point is 02:29:11 that you must not teach. You have to set an example of the sterner qualities, to discourage anything that resembles sentimentalism. And think, if you illustrate in your own behaviour a sympathy for the very vice of character we are trying our hardest to extirpate. This is a terrible harangue. said miss barfoot when the passionate voice had been silent for a few ticks of the clerk i quite enter into your point of view but i think you go beyond practical zeal however i will help the girl in some other way if possible i have offended you impossible to take offence at such obvious sincerity but surely you grant the force of what i say we differ a good deal rhoda on certain points at such obvious sincerity but surely you grant the force of what i say we differ a good deal rhoda on certain points which as a rule would never come up to interfere with our working in harmony. You have come to dislike the very thought of marriage, and everything of that kind.

Starting point is 02:30:09 I think it's a danger you ought to have avoided. True, we wish to prevent girls from marrying just for the sake of being supported, and from degrading themselves, as poor Bella Royston has done. But surely, between ourselves we can admit that the vast majority of women would leave it a wasted life if they did not marry. I maintain that the vast majority of women lead a vain and miserable life because they do marry. Don't you blame the institution of marriage with what is chargeable to human fate? A vain and miserable life is the lot of nearly all mortals. Most women, whether they marry or not, will suffer and commit endless follies.

Starting point is 02:30:50 Most women, as life is at present arranged for them, things are changing, and we try to have our part in hastening a new order?" We use words in a different sense. I speak of human nature, not of the effect of institutions. Now it is you who are unpractical, those views lead only to pessimism and paralysis of effort." Miss Barfoot rose. I give in to your objection against bringing the girl back to work here. I will help her in other ways.

Starting point is 02:31:23 It's quite true that she isn't to be relied upon. to trust her in any detail of life. The pity is that a degradation can't be used as an object lesson for our other girls." There again we differ. You are quite mistaken in your ideas of how the mind is influenced. The misery of Bella Royston would not in the least affect any other girl's way of thinking about the destiny of her sex. We must avoid exaggeration. If our friends get to think of us as fanatics, all our usefulness is over. The ideal we set up must be human. Do you think now that we know one single girl, who in her heart believes it is

Starting point is 02:32:03 better never to love and never to marry?" "'Perhaps not,' admitted Rhoda, more cheerful now that she had gained her point. But we know several who will not dream of marrying unless reason urges them as strongly as inclination." Miss Barfoot laughed. "'Pray, whoever distinguished in such a case between reason and inclination? "'You are most unusually skeptical to-day,' said Rhoda, with an impatient laugh. "'No, my dear. We happen to be going to the root of things, that's all. Perhaps it's as well

Starting point is 02:32:38 to do so now and then. Oh, I admire you immensely, Rhoda. You are the ideal adversary of those care-nothing and believe-nothing women who keep the world back. But don't prepare for yourself a woeful disillusion. Take the case of Winifred Haven, urged Miss Nunn. She is a good-looking and charming girl, and some one or other will want to marry her some day no doubt. Forgive me for interrupting you. There is great doubt.

Starting point is 02:33:08 She has no money but what she can earn, and such girls, unless they are exceptionally beautiful, are very likely indeed to remain unsought. Granted, but let us suppose she has an offer. Should you fear for her prudence? "'Winifred has much good sense,' admitted the other. "'I think she is in as little danger as any girl we know. But it wouldn't startle me if she made the most lamentable mistake. Certainly I don't fear it.

Starting point is 02:33:36 The girls of our class are not like the uneducated, who, for one reason or another, will marry almost any man rather than remain single. They have, at all events, personal delicacy. But what I insist upon is that Winifred would rather marry than not. and we must carefully bear that fact in mind. A strained ideal is as bad practically as no ideal at all. Only the most exceptional girl will believe it her duty to remain single as an example and support to what we call the odd women.

Starting point is 02:34:07 Yet that is the most human way of urging what you desire. By taking up the proud position that a woman must be altogether independent of sexual things, you damage your cause. Let us be glad if we put a few of them in the way of living single with no more, discontent than an unmarried man experiences." "'Surely that's an unfortunate comparison?' said Rhoda coldly. "'What man lives in celibacy?' Consider that unmentionable fact, and then say whether I am wrong in refusing to forgive

Starting point is 02:34:37 Miss Royston. Women's battle is not only against themselves. The necessity of the case demands what you call a strained ideal. I am seriously convinced that before the female sex can be raised from its low level, There will have to be a widespread revolt against sexual instinct. Christianity couldn't spread over the world without help of the ascetic ideal, and this great movement for women's emancipation must also have its ascetics. I can't declare that you are wrong in that—who knows?

Starting point is 02:35:08 But it isn't good policy to preach it to our young disciples. I shall respect your wish, but—Roda paused and shook her head. "'My dear,' said the elder woman gravely, "'believe me, that the less we talk or think about such things the better for the peace of us all. The odious fault of working-class girls, in town and country alike, is that they are absorbed in preoccupation with their animal nature. We, thanks to our education and the tone of our society, managed to keep that in the background.

Starting point is 02:35:44 Don't interfere with this satisfactory state of things. Be content to show our girls that it is their duty to lead a life of effort, to earn their bread and to cultivate their minds. Simply ignore marriage. That's the wisest. Behave as if the thing didn't exist. You will do positive harm by taking the other cause, the aggressive cause. I shall obey you.

Starting point is 02:36:10 Good, humble creature! laughed Miss Farfoot. Come, let's be off to Chelsea. Did Miss Grey finish? that copy for Mr. Houghton?" Yes, it has gone to post. Look, here's a big manuscript from our friend the antiquary. Two of the girls must get to work on it at once in the morning."

Starting point is 02:36:30 Manuscripts entrusted to them were kept in a fire-proof safe. When this had been locked up, the ladies went to their dressing-room and prepared for departure. The people who lived on the premises were responsible for cleaning the rooms and other care. To them Rhoda delivered the door-keys. This barfoot was grave and silent on the way home. Rhoda, annoyed at the subject that doubtless occupied her friend's thoughts, gave herself up to reflections of her own.

Starting point is 02:36:57 End of Chapter 6. Chapter 7 of The Odd Women This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 7 A Social Advance A week's notice to her employers would release Monica from the engagement in Walworth Road.

Starting point is 02:37:24 Such notice must be given on Monday, so that, if she could at once make up her mind to accept Miss Barfoot's offer, the coming week would be her last of slavery behind the counter. On the way home from Queen's Road, Alice and Virginia pressed for immediate decision. They were unable to comprehend how Monica could hesitate for another moment. The question of her place of abode had already been discussed. One of Miss Barfoot's young women, who lived at a convenient distance from Great Portland Street, would gladly accept a partner in her lodging, an arrangement to be recommended for its economy. Yet Monica shrank from speaking the final word.

Starting point is 02:38:06 I don't know whether it's worthwhile, she said after a long silence, as they drew near to York Road Station whence they were to take train for Clapham Junction. not worth while exclaimed virginia you don't think it would be an improvement yes i suppose it would i shall see how i feel about it to-morrow morning she spent the evening at lavender hill but without change in the mood thus indicated a strange inquietude appeared in her behaviour it was as though she were being urged to undertake something hard and repugnant On her return to Walworth Road, just as she came within sight of the shop, she observed a man's figure some twenty yards distant, which instantly held her attention. The dim gaslight occasioned some uncertainty, but she believed the figure was that of widowson. He was walking on the other side of the street, and away from her.

Starting point is 02:39:05 When the man was exactly opposite Scotcher's establishment, he gazed in that direction, but without stopping. Monica hastened, fearing to be seen and approached. Already she had reached the door, when widowson—yes, it was he, turned abruptly to walk back again. His eye was at once upon her, but whether he recognized her or not Monica could not know. At that moment she opened the door and passed in. A fit of trembling seized her, as if she had barely escaped some peril.

Starting point is 02:39:37 In the passage she stood motionless, listening with the intent. intensity of dread. She could hear footsteps on the pavement. She expected a ring at the door-bell. If he were so thoughtless as to come to the door, she would on no account see him. But there was no ring, and after a few minutes waiting, she recovered herself command. She had not made a mistake. Even his features had been discernible as he turned towards her. Was this the first time that he had come to look at the place where she lived, possibly to spy on her? She resented this behavior, yet the feeling was confused with a certain satisfaction. From one of the dormitories there was a view of Walworth Road. She ran upstairs,

Starting point is 02:40:22 softly opened the door of that room, and peeped in. The low burning gas showed her that only one bed had an occupant, who appeared to be asleep. Softly she went to the window, drew the blind aside, and looked down into the street. But Whittowson had disappeared. He might, of course, be on this side of the way. "'Who's that?' suddenly asked a voice from the occupied bed. The speaker was Miss Ead. Monica looked at her and nodded. "'You? What are you doing here?'

Starting point is 02:40:54 "'I wanted to see if someone was standing outside.' "'You mean him?' The other nodded. "'I've got a beastly headache. I couldn't hold myself up, and I had to come home at eight o'clock. "'There's such pains all down my back, too.' I shan't stay at this beastly place much longer. I don't want to get ill, like Miss Radford.

Starting point is 02:41:15 Somebody went to see her at the hospital this afternoon, and she's awfully bad. Well, have you seen him? He's gone. Good-night." And Monica left the room. Next day she notified her intention of leaving her employment. No questions were asked. She was of no particular importance.

Starting point is 02:41:36 Fifty—or, for the matter of that, five-score young women equally capable could be found to fill her place. On Tuesday morning there came a letter from Virginia, a few lines requesting her to meet her sisters as soon as possible after closing time that evening in front of the shop. We have something very delightful to tell you. We do hope you gave notice to-day, as things are getting so bright in every direction. At a quarter to ten she was able to run out, and close at hand were the two eagerly awaiting her.

Starting point is 02:42:09 Mrs. Darby has found a place for Alice,' began Virginia. "'We heard by the afternoon post yesterday. A lady at Yatton wants a governess for two young children. Isn't it fortunate?' "'So delightfully convenient for what we were thinking of,' put in the eldest with her croaking voice. "'Nothing could have been better.' "'You mean about the school?' said Monica dreamily. "'Yes, the school,' Virginia replied with trembling earnestness. Yatton is convenient both for Clevedon and Weston. Alice will be able to run over to both places and to make enquiries, and ascertain where the best opening would be."

Starting point is 02:42:50 Miss Nunn's suggestion, hitherto but timidly discussed, had taken hold upon their minds as soon as Alice received the practical call to her native region. Both were enthusiastic for the undertaking. It afforded them a novel subject of conversation, and inspirited them by seeming to restore their self-respect. After all, they might have a mission, a task in the world. They pictured themselves the heads of a respectable and thriving establishment, with subordinate teachers, with pleasant social relations. They felt young again and capable of indefinite activity. Why had they not thought of this long ago? And thereupon they reverted to antistrophic laudation of Rhoda Nun. "'Is it a good place?' their younger sister inquired.

Starting point is 02:43:35 "'Oh, pretty good. "'Only £12 pounds a year, but nice people, Mrs. Darby says. "'They want me at once, and it is very likely that in a few weeks I shall go with them to the seaside.' "'What could have been better?' cried Virginia. "'Her health will be established, and in half a year, or less, we shall be able to come to a decision about the great step. Oh, and have you given notice, darling?' "'Yes, I have.' Both clapped their hands like children.

Starting point is 02:44:06 It was an odd little scene on the London pavement at ten o'clock at night, so intimately domestic amid surroundings the very antithesis of domesticity. Only a few yards away, a girl, to whom the pavement was a place of commerce, stood laughing with two men. The sound of her voice hinted to Monica the advisability of walking as they conversed, and they moved towards Walworth Road Station. "'We thought it first,' said Virginia, that when Alice had gone you might like to share my room.

Starting point is 02:44:38 But then the distance from Great Portland Street would be a decided objection. I might move, but we doubt whether that would be worthwhile. It is so comfortable with Mrs. Coinsby, and with a short remaining time. Christmas, I should think, would be a very good time for opening. If it were possible to decide upon dear old Clevedon, of course we should prefer it. But perhaps Weston will offer more scope. Alice will weigh all the arguments on the spot. Don't you envy her, Monica, think of being there in this summer weather.

Starting point is 02:45:12 Why don't you go as well? Monika asked. Aye, and take lodgings, you mean? We never thought of that. But we still have to consider expenditure very seriously, you know. If possible I must find employment for the rest of the year. Remember how very likely it is that Miss Nan will have something to suggest for me. and when I think it would be of so much practical use for me to see her frequently for a few weeks.

Starting point is 02:45:39 Already I have learnt so much from her and from Miss Barfoot, their conversation is so encouraging. I feel that it is a training of the mind to be in contact with them.' "'Yes, I quite share that view,' said Alice with tremulous earnestness. Virginia can reap much profit from intercourse with them. They have the new ideas in education, and it would be so good if our school began with the advantage of quite a modern system. Monica became silent. When her sisters had talked in the same strain for a quarter of an hour, she said absently, I wrote to Miss Barfoot last night, so I suppose I shall be able to move to those lodgings next Sunday. It was eleven o'clock

Starting point is 02:46:23 before they parted. Having taken leave of her sisters near the station, Monica turned to walk quickly home. She had gone about half the way, when her name was spoken just behind her, in Widowson's voice. She stopped, and there stood the man, offering his hand. "'Why are you here at this time?' she asked in an unsteady voice. "'Not by chance. I had a hope that I might see you.' He was gloomy, and looked at her searchingly. "'I mustn't wait to talk now, Mr. Whittowson. It's very late.' very late indeed it surprised me to see you surprised you why should it i mean that it seemed so very unlikely at this hour then how could you have hoped to see me

Starting point is 02:47:11 monica walked on with an air of displeasure and widowson kept beside her incessantly eyeing her countenance no i didn't really think of seeing you miss madden i wished to be near the place where you were that was all You saw me come out, I dare say. No. If you had done you would have known that I came to meet two ladies, my sisters. I walked with them to the station, and now I am going home. You seem to think an explanation necessary. Do forgive me. What right have I to ask anything of the kind?

Starting point is 02:47:44 But I have been very restless since Sunday. I wished so to meet you, if only for a few minutes. Only an hour or two ago I posted a letter to you. "'Mannica said nothing. "'It was to ask you to meet me next Sunday as we arranged. "'Shall you be able to do so?' "'I'm afraid I can't. "'At the end of this week I leave my place here,

Starting point is 02:48:06 "'and on Sunday I shall be moving to another part of London.' "'You are leaving. "'You have decided to make the change you spoke of?' "'Yes.' "'And will you tell me where you are going to live?' "'In lodgings near Great Portland Street. "'I must say good-night, Mr. Whitterson, I must indeed.

Starting point is 02:48:26 Please do give me one moment. I can't stay, I can't, good-night!' It was impossible for him to detain her. Ungracefully he caught at his hat, made the salute, and moved away with rapid, uneven strides. In less than half an hour he was back again at this spot. He walked past the shop many times without pausing. His eyes devoured the front of the building,

Starting point is 02:48:51 and noted those windows in which there was a glimmer of light. He saw girls enter by the private door, but Monica did not again show herself. Some time after midnight, when the house had long been dark and perfectly quiet, the uneasy man took a last look, and then sought a cab to convey him home. The letter of which he had spoken reached Monica's hands next morning. It was a very respectful invitation to accompany the writer on a drive in Surrey. Whittison proposed to meet her at Hearn Hill railway station, where his vehicle would be waiting. In passing, I shall be able to point out to you the house which has been my home for about a

Starting point is 02:49:30 year. As circumstances were, it would be hardly possible to accept his invitation without exciting curiosity in her sisters. The Sunday morning would be occupied probably in going to the new lodgings, and making the acquaintance of her future companion there. In the afternoon her sisters were to pay her a visit, as Alice had decided to start for Somerset on the Monday. She must write a refusal, but it was by no means her wish to discourage Widowson altogether. The note which at length satisfied her ran thus.

Starting point is 02:50:01 "'Dear Mr. Whittison, I am very sorry that it will be impossible for me to see you next Sunday. All day I shall be occupied. My eldest sister is leaving London, and Sunday will be my last day with her, perhaps for a long time. Please do not think that I make light of your kindness. When I am settled in my new life, I hope to be able to let you know how it suits me. Sincerely yours, Monica Madden. In a postscript she mentioned her new address. It was written in very small characters, perhaps an unpurposed indication of the misgiving with which she allowed herself to pen the words.

Starting point is 02:50:38 Two days went by, and again a letter from Widowson was delivered. Dear Miss Madden, my chief purpose in writing again so soon as to apologize sincerely for my behaviour on Tuesday evening. It was quite unjustifiable. The best way of confessing my fault is to own that I had a foolish dislike of your walking in the streets unaccompanied at so late an hour. I believe that any man who had newly made your acquaintance, and had thought as much about you as I have, would have experienced the same feeling. The life which made it impossible for you to see friends at any other time of the day was so evidently unsuited to one of your refinement that I was made angry by the thought of it.

Starting point is 02:51:18 Happily it is coming to an end, and I shall be greatly relieved when I know that you have left the house of business. You remember that we are to be friends. I should be much less than your friend if I did not desire for you a position very different from that which necessity forced upon you. Thank you very much for the promise to tell me how you like the new employment and your new friends. Shall you not henceforth be at leisure on other days besides Sunday?

Starting point is 02:51:44 As you will now be near Regent's Park, perhaps if you are not, may hope to meet you there some evening before long i would go any distance to see you and speak with you for only a few minutes do forgive my impertinence and believe me dear miss madden ever yours edmund whitterson now this undoubtedly might be considered a love-letter and it was the first of its kind that monica had ever received no man had ever written to her that he was willing to go any distance for the reward of looking at her face she read the composition many times and with many thoughts. It did not enchant her. Presently she felt it to be dull and prosy—anything but the ideal of a love-letter, even at this early stage. The remarks concerning Whittison made in the bedroom by the girl who fancied her asleep had greatly disturbed her conception of him. He was old, and looked still older to a casual eye. He had a stiff, dry way, and already had begun to show how precise and exacting he could be.

Starting point is 02:52:46 A year or two ago the image of such a man would have repelled her. She did not think it possible to regard him with warm feelings. Yet, if he asked her to marry him—and that seemed likely to happen very soon—almost certainly her answer would be yes—provided, of course, that all he had told her about himself could be in some satisfactory way confirmed. Her acquaintance with him was an extraordinary thing. With what amazement and rapture would any one of her shop companions listen to the advances of a man who had six hundred a year. Yet Monica did not doubt this truthfulness and

Starting point is 02:53:22 the honesty of his intentions. His life-story sounded creditable enough, and the very dryness of his manner inspired confidence. As things went in the marriage-war she might esteem herself a most fortunate young woman. It seemed that he had really fallen in love with her. He might prove a devoted husband. She felt no love in return, but between the prospect of a marriage of esteem and that of no marriage at all, there was little room for hesitation. The chances were that she might never again receive an offer from a man whose social standing she could respect. In the meantime there had come a civil little note from the girl whose room she was to share. Miss Barfoot has spoken of you so favourably that I did not think it necessary to see you

Starting point is 02:54:05 before consenting to what she suggested. Perhaps she has told you that I have my own furniture. It is very plain, but I think comfortable. For the two rooms with a ten, attendance, I pay eight and sixpence a week. My landlady will ask eleven shillings when there are two of us, so that your share would be five and six. I hope you won't think this too much. I am a quiet and I think very reasonable person." The signature was Mildred H. Vesper. The day of release arrived. As it poured with rain all the morning, Monica the less regretted that she had been obliged to postpone her meeting with Whitterson. At breakfast-time she said

Starting point is 02:54:44 good-bye to the three or four girls in whom she had any interest. Miss Ead was delighted to see her go. This rival finally out of the way, Mr. Bullivant might perchance turn his attention to the faithful admirer who remained. She went by train to Great Portland Street, and thence by cab, and her boxes to Rutland Street, Hampstead Road, an uphill little street of small houses. When the cab stopped, the door of the house she sought at once opened, and on the threshold appeared a short, prim, plain-featured girl, who smiled a welcome. "'You are Miss Vespas, Monica said, approaching her. "'Yes, very pleased to see you, Miss Madden. As London cabmen have a narrow view of their duties,

Starting point is 02:55:28 I'll help you to get the boxes in.' Monica liked the girl at once. Gee-hue, condescending to hand down the luggage, they transferred it to the foot of the staircase. Then the fare, having been paid, went up to the second floor, which was the top of the the house. Miss Vespers' two rooms were very humble, but homely. She looked at Monica to remark the impression produced by them. "'Will it do?' "'Oh, very nicely, indeed, after my quarters in Warwick Road, but I feel ashamed to intrude upon you. I have been trying to find someone to share my rent,' said the other, with a simple frankness that was very agreeable.

Starting point is 02:56:07 Miss Barfoot was full of your praises, and indeed I think we may suit each other. i shall try to be as little disturbance to you as possible and i to you the street is a very quiet one up above here is cumberland market a hay and straw market quite pleasant odours country odours reach us on market day i am country bread that's why i speak of such a trifle so am i said monica i come from somerset and i from hampshire do you know i have a strong suspicion that all the really nice girls in london are country girls monica had to look at the speaker to be sure that this was said in pleasantry miss vespur was fond of making dry little jokes in the gravest tone only a twinkle of her eyes and a movement of her tight little lips betrayed her shall i ask the landlady to help me up with the luggage you are rather pale miss madden better let me see to that i have to go down to remind mrs hocking to put salt into the saucepan with potatoes she cooks for me only on sunday and if i didn't remind her to remind her to make her to put her to puttin to the saucepan with potatoes she cooks for me only on sunday and if i didn't remind her to-mind her to-mine she'll every week she would boil the potatoes without salt. Such a state of mind is curious, but one ends by accepting it as a fact in nature." They joined in merry laughter. When Miss Vesper gave way too open mirth she enjoyed it so thoroughly

Starting point is 02:57:27 that it was a delight to look at her. By the time dinner was over they were on excellent terms, and had exchanged a great deal of personal information. Mildred Vesper seemed to be one of the most contented of young women. She had sisters and brothers. others whom she loved, all scattered about England in pursuit of a livelihood. It was rare for any two of them to see each other, but she spoke of this as quite in the order of things. For Miss Barfoot her respect was unbounded. She had made more of me than any one else could have done. When I first met her three years ago I was a simpleton. I thought myself ill-used because I had to work hard for

Starting point is 02:58:04 next to no payment and live in solitude. Now I should be ashamed to complain of what force to the lot of thousands of girls." "'Do you like Miss Nunn?' asked Monica. "'Not so well as Miss Barfoot, but I think very highly of her. Her zeal makes her exaggerate a little now and then, but then the zeal is so splendid. I haven't it myself, not in that form?' "'You mean—I mean that I feel a shameful delight when I hear of a girl getting married. It's very weak, no doubt. Perhaps I shall improve as I grow older.

Starting point is 02:58:38 But I have half a suspicion, do you know, that Miss Barfoot is not without the same weakness." Monica laughed and spoke of something else. She was in good spirits. Already her companion's view of life began to have an effect upon her. She thought of people and things in a more lightsome way, and was less disposed to commiserate herself. The bedroom which both were to occupy might with advantage have been larger. But they knew that many girls of instinct, no less delicate than their own, had to endure far worse accommodation in London, where poverty pays for its sheltered breathing-space at so much a square foot. It was only of late that Miss Vesper had been able to buy furniture—four sovereigns it cost in all, and thus to allow herself the luxury

Starting point is 02:59:22 of two rooms at the rent she previously paid for one. Miss Barfoot did not remunerate her workers on a philanthropic scale, but strictly in accordance with market prices. Common sense dictated this principle. In talking over their arrangements, Monica decided to expend a few shillings on the purchase of a chair bedstead for her own use. "'I often have night-mess,' she remarked, and kick a great deal. It wouldn't be nice to give you bruises.' A week passed. Alice had written from Yatton, and in a cheerful tone. Virginia, chronically excited, had made calls at Rutland Street and at Queen's Road. She talked like one who had suddenly received a great illumination, and her zeal in the cause of independent womanhood rivaled Miss Nuns.

Starting point is 03:00:09 Without enthusiasm, but seemingly contented, Monica worked at the typewriting machine, and had begun certain studies which her friends judged to be useful. She experienced a growth of self-respect. It was much to have risen above the status of shop-girl, and the change of moral atmosphere had a very beneficial effect upon her. Mildred Vesper was a studious little person, after a fashion of her own. She possessed four volumes of Monders' treasuries, and to one or other of these she applied herself for at least an hour every evening. "'By nature,' she said, when Monica sought an explanation of this study, "'My mind is frivolous. What I need is a store of solid information to reflect upon.

Starting point is 03:00:53 No one could possibly have a worse memory, but by persevering I managed to learn one or two facts a day.' Monica glanced at the books now and then, but had no desire to cultivate her. Monder's acquaintance. Instead of reading, she meditated the problems of her own life. Edmund Whittowson, of course, wrote to her at the new address. In her reply she again postponed their meeting. Whenever she went out in the evening it was with expectation of seeing him somewhere in the neighborhood. She felt assured that he had long ago come to look at the house, and more likely than not his eyes had several times been upon her. That did not matter. Her

Starting point is 03:01:31 life was innocent, and Widowson might watch her coming in. and going as much as he would. At length, about nine o'clock one evening, she came face to face with him. It was in Hampstead Road. She had been buying at a draper's, and carried the little parcel. At the moment of recognition, Whittison's face so flushed and brightened that Monica could not help a sympathetic feeling of pleasure. "'Why are you so cruel to me?' he said in a low voice as she gave her hand. "'What a time since I saw you!' "'Is that really true?' she replied.

Starting point is 03:02:04 replied, with an air more resembling coquetry than any he had yet seen in her. "'Since I spoke to you, then.' "'When did you see me?' "'Three evenings ago. You were walking in Tottenham Court Road with a young lady. "'Miss Vespher, the friend I live with.' "'Will you give me a few minutes now?' he asked humbly. "'Is it too late?' For reply Monica moved slowly on.

Starting point is 03:02:30 They turned up one of the ways parallel with Rutland Street, and so came into the quiet district that skirts regent's park, Wittison talking all the way in a strain of all but avowed tenderness. His head bent towards her, and his voice so much subdued that occasionally she lost a few words. "'I can't live without seeing you,' he said at length. "'If you refuse to meet me, I have no choice but to come wandering about the places where you are. Don't pray, don't think I spy upon you. Indeed, it is only just to see your face, or your form as you walk along. And I have had my journey in vain I go back in misery. You are never out of my thoughts. Never." I am sorry for that, Mr. Whittison."

Starting point is 03:03:13 "'Sorry? Are you really sorry? Do you think of me, with less friendliness than when we had our evening on the river?' "'Oh, not with less friendliness. But if I only make you unhappy—' In one way unhappy, but as no one else ever had the power to—if you would let me meet you at certain my restlessness would be at an end. The summer is going so quickly. Won't you come for that drive with me next Sunday? I'll be waiting for you at any place you like to appoint. If you could imagine what joy it would give me." Presently Monica assented. If it were fine, she would be by the southeast entrance to Regent's Park at two o'clock. He thanked her with words of the most

Starting point is 03:03:56 submissive gratitude, and then they parted. The day proved doubtful, but she kept her appointment. Wittison was on the spot with horse and trap. These were not, as he presently informed Monica, his own property, but hired from a livery stable, according to his custom. "'It won't rain,' he exclaimed, gazing at the sky. "'It shan't rain. These few hours are too precious to me.' "'It would be very awkward if it did,' Monica replied in merry humor, as they drove along. The sky threatened till sundown, but Whittison was able to keep declaring that rain would not come. He took a south-westward course, crossed Waterloo Bridge, and thence by the highways

Starting point is 03:04:39 made for Hearn Hill. Monica observed that he made a short detour to avoid Walworth Road. She asked his reason. "'I hate the road,' Whittison answered with vehemence. "'You hate it? Because you slaved and suffered there. If I had the power I would destroy it, every house.' "'Many a time,' he added in a lower voice, "'when you were lying a I walked up and down there in horrible misery. Just because I had to stand at a counter? Not only that.

Starting point is 03:05:11 It wasn't fit for you to work in that way. But the people about you! I hated every face of man or woman that passed along the street. I didn't like the society. I should hope not. Of course I know you didn't. Why did you ever come to such a place? There was severity rather than sympathy in his look.

Starting point is 03:05:32 I was tired of the dull country life," Monica replied frankly, and then I didn't know what the shops and the people were like." "'Do you need a life of excitement?' he asked with a sidelong glance. "'Exitement? No, but one must have change.' When they reached Hearn Hill, Whittison became silent, and presently he allowed the horse to walk. "'That is my house, Miss Madden, the right-hand one.'

Starting point is 03:06:01 Monica looked and saw two little villas, built together with stone facings, porches at the doors, and ornamented gables. "'I only wanted to show it you,' he added quickly. "'There's nothing pretty or noticeable about it, and it isn't at all grandly furnished. My old housekeeper and one servant managed to keep it in order.' They passed, and Monica did not allow herself to look back. "'I think it's a nice house,' she said presently. All my life I have wished to have a house of my own, but I didn't dare to hope I ever should.

Starting point is 03:06:35 Men in general don't seem to care, so long as they have lodgings that suit them. I mean unmarried men. But I always wanted to live alone. Without strangers, that is to say. I told you that I am not very sociable. When I got my house, I was like a child with a toy. I couldn't sleep for satisfaction. I used to walk all over it day after day before it was furnished.

Starting point is 03:06:58 There was something that delighted me in the sound of my footsteps on the staircases and the bare floors. Here I shall live and die, I kept saying to myself. Not in solitude, I hoped. Perhaps I might meet someone. Monica interrupted him to ask a question about some object in the landscape. He answered her very briefly, and for a long time neither spoke. Then the girl, glancing at him with a smile of apology, said in a gentle tone, you were telling me how the house pleased you have you still the same pleasure in living there yes but lately i have been hoping i daren't say more you will interrupt me again which way are we going now mr whittison to stretham and then on to carshelton at five o'clock we will use our right as travellers and get some innkeeper to make tea for us look the sun is trying to break through we shall have a fine evening yet may i without rudeness

Starting point is 03:07:58 "'Say that you look better since you left that abominable place.' "'Oh, I feel better.' After keeping his look fixed for a long time on the horse's ears, Whittison turned gravely to his companion. "'I told you about my sister-in-law. Would you be willing to make her acquaintance?' "'I don't feel able to do that, Mr. Whittison,' Monica answered with decision. "'Prepared for this reply, he began a long and urgent persuasion. It was useless. Monica listened quietly, but without sign of yielding. The subject dropped, and they talked

Starting point is 03:08:33 of indifferent things. On the homeward drive, when the dull sky grew dusk about them, and the suburban street-lamps began to show themselves in long, glimmering lines, Wittison returned with shame-faced courage to the subject which for some hours had been in abeyance. "'I can't part from you this evening without a word of hope to remember. You know that I want you to be my wife. Will you tell me if there are a word of hope to remember? Will you tell me if there's is anything I can say or do to make your consent possible. Have you any doubt of me?" No doubt whatever of your sincerity. In one sense I am still a stranger to you. Will you give me the opportunity of making things

Starting point is 03:09:12 between us more regular? Will you allow me to meet some friend of yours whom you trust?" I had rather you didn't yet. You wish to know still more of me, personally? Yes, I think I must know you much better before I can consent to any step of that kind. "'But,' he urged, if we became acquaintances in the ordinary way, and knew each other's friends, wouldn't that be most satisfactory to you?' It might be.

Starting point is 03:09:40 But you forget that so much would have to be explained. I have behaved very strangely. If I told everything to my friends I should leave myself no choice. Oh, why not? You would be absolutely free. I could no more than try to recommend myself to you. If I am so unhappy as to fail, how would you be anything but quite free?" But surely you must understand me.

Starting point is 03:10:04 In this position I must either not speak of you at all, or make it known that I am engaged to you. I can't have it taken for granted that I am engaged to you, and I don't wish to be." Whittison's head drooped. He set his lips in a hard, gloomy expression. "'I have behaved very imprudently,' continued the girl. "'But I don't see—I can't see what else I could have done. things are so badly arranged. It wasn't possible for us to be introduced by anyone who knew us both,

Starting point is 03:10:34 so I had either to break off your acquaintance after that first conversation, or conduct myself as I have been doing. I think it's a very hard position. My sisters would call me an immodest girl, but I don't think that is true. I may, perhaps, come to feel you as a girl ought to be when she marries. And how else can I tell unless I meet you and talk with you? And your position is just the same. I don't blame you for a moment. I think it would be ridiculous to blame you. Yet we have gone against the ordinary rule, and people would make us suffer for it, or me at all events." Her voice at the close was uncertain. Widdison looked at her with eyes of passionate admiration.

Starting point is 03:11:17 "'Thank you for saying that, for putting it so well and so kindly for me. Let us disregard people then. Let us go on seeing each other. I'd love you with all my soul!' he choked a little at this first utterance of the solemn word, and your rules shall be mine. Give me a chance of winning you. Tell me if I offend you in anything, if there's anything you dislike in me. Will you cease coming to look for me when I don't know of it? I promise you, I will never come again, and you will meet me a little oftener. I will see you once every week, But I must still be perfectly free. Perfectly.

Starting point is 03:11:58 I will only try to win you as any man may who loves a woman. The tired horse clattered upon the hard highway, and clouds gathered for a night of storm. End of Chapter 7. Chapter 8 of the Odd Women. This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clet. The Odd Women by George Gissing.

Starting point is 03:12:25 Chapter 8 Cousin Everard As Miss Barfoot's eye fell on the letters brought to her at breakfast time, she uttered an exclamation, doubtful in its significance. Rhoda Nun, who rarely had a letter from anyone, looked up inquiringly. I am greatly mistaken if that isn't my cousin Everard's writing. I thought so. He is in London.

Starting point is 03:12:52 Roda made no remark. "'Pray read it,' said the other, handing her friend the epistle after she had gone through it. The handwriting was remarkably bold but careful. Punctuation was strictly attended to, and in places a word had been obliterated with a circular scrawl which left it still legible. "'Dear Cousin Mary, I hear that you were still active in an original way, and that civilization is more and more indebted to you. Since my arrival in London a few weeks ago, I have several times been on the point of calling at your house, but scruples withheld me. Our last interview was not quite friendly on your side, you will remember, and perhaps your

Starting point is 03:13:34 failure to write to me means continued displeasure. In that case I might be rejected at your door, which I shouldn't like, for I am troubled with a foolish sense of personal dignity. I have taken a flat, and mean to stay in London for at least half a year. Please let me know whether I may see you. Indeed, I should like to. Nature meant us for good friends, but prejudice came between us. Just a line, either of welcome, or get thee behind me. In spite of your censures, I always was, and still am, affectionately yours, Everard Barfoot.

Starting point is 03:14:09 Rhoda perused the sheet very attentively. An impudent letter, said Miss Barfoot, just like him. Where does he appear from? "'Japan, I suppose. But prejudice came between us. I like that. Moral conviction is always prejudice in the eyes of these advanced young men. Of course he must come. I am anxious to see what time is made of him.' "'Was it really moral censure that kept you from writing to him?' inquired Rhoda with a smile. "'Decidedly, I didn't approve of him at all as I have frequently told you.'

Starting point is 03:14:48 "'But I gather that he hasn't changed much.' "'Not in theories,' replied Miss Barfoot. "'That isn't to be expected. He is far too stubborn. But in mode of life he may possibly be more tolerable.' "'After two or three years in Japan?' rejoined Rhoda, with a slight raising of the eyebrows. He is about three and thirty, and before he left England, I think he showed

Starting point is 03:15:14 possibilities of future wisdom. of course i disapprove of him and if necessary shall let him understand that quite as plainly as before but there's no harm in seeing him if he is learnt to behave himself everard barfoot received an invitation to dine it was promptly accepted and on the evening of the appointment he arrived at half-past seven his cousin sat alone in the drawing-room at his entrance she regarded him with keen but friendly scrutiny he had a tall and a tall and his cousin sat alone in the drawing-room at his entrance she regarded him with keen but friendly scrutiny he had a tall a full muscular frame and a head of striking outline, with large nose, full lips, deep-set eyes, and prominent eyebrows. His hair was the richest tone of chestnut, his mustache and beard, the latter peeking slightly forward, inclined to redness. Excellent health manifested itself in the warm purity of his skin, in his cheerful aspect, and in the lightness of his bearing. The lower half of his forehead was wrinkled, and when he did not fix his look on anything in particular,

Starting point is 03:16:15 eyelids drooped, giving him for the moment an air of languor. On sitting down he had once abandoned himself to a posture of the completest ease, which his admirable proportions made graceful. From his appearance one would have expected him to speak in rather loud and decided tones, but he had a soft voice, and used it with all the discretion of good breeding, so that at times it seemed to caress the ear. To this mode of utterance corresponded his smile, which was frequent, but restrained to the expression of a delicate, good-natured irony.

Starting point is 03:16:50 "'No one had told me of your return,' were Miss Barfoot's first words as she shirk hands with him. "'I fancy because no one knew. You were the first of my kinsfolk to whom I wrote. "'Much honour, Everard, you look very well. I am glad to be able to say the same of you, and yet I hear that you work harder than ever. Who is the source of your information about me?' I had an account of you from Tom, in a letter that caught me at Constantinople. "'Tom? I thought he had forgotten my existence.

Starting point is 03:17:25 Who told him about me I can't imagine?' "'So you didn't come straight home from Japan?' Barfoot was nursing his knee, his head thrown back. "'No, I loitered a little in Egypt and Turkey. Are you living quite alone?' He drawled slightly on the last word, its second vowel making quite a musical note of wonderful expressiveness. The clear decision of his cousin's reply was a sharp contrast.

Starting point is 03:17:53 "'A lady lives with me. Miss Nunn. She will join us in a moment.' "'Miss Nunn,' he smiled. "'A partner in your activity?' "'She gives me valuable help.' "'I must hear all about it, if you will kindly tell me some day. It will interest me greatly. You always were the most interesting of our family. Brother Tom promised to be a genius, but marriage has blighted the hope, I fear. The marriage was a very absurd one. Was it?

Starting point is 03:18:26 I feared so, but Tom seemed satisfied. I suppose they will stay at Madeira. Until his wife is tired of her imaginary physis, and amuses herself with imagining some other ailment that requires them to go to Siberia. "'Ah, that kind of person is she?' he smiled indulgently, and played for a moment with the lobe of his right ear. His ears were small and of the ideal contour. The hand, too thus displayed, was a fine example of blended strength and elegance. Rhoda came in, so quietly that she was able to observe the guest before he had detected

Starting point is 03:19:03 her presence. The movement of Miss Barfoot's eyes first informed him that another person was in the room. In the quietest possible way the introduction was performed, and all seated themselves. Dressed, like the hostess in black, and without ornaments of any kind, save a silver buckle at her waist, Rota seemed to have endeavored to liken herself to the suggestion of her name by the excessive plainness with which she had arranged her hair. Its tight smoothness was nothing like so becoming as the mode she usually adopted, and it made her look older. Whether by accident or design, she took an upright chair, and sat upon it in a stiff attitude. Finding it difficult to suspect Rhoda of shyness, Miss Barfoot once or twice glanced

Starting point is 03:19:47 at her with curiosity. For settled conversation there was no time. A servant announced dinner almost immediately. There shall be no forms, Cousin Eberard, said the hostess. Please to follow us. Doing so, Everard examined Miss Nunn's figure, which in its way was strong and shapely as his own. A motion of his lips indicated a mused approval, but at once he commanded himself, and entered the dining-room with exemplary gravity. Naturally he sat opposite Rhoda, and his eyes often

Starting point is 03:20:18 skimmed her face. When she spoke, which was very seldom, he gazed at her with close attention. During the first part of the meal, Miss Barfoot questioned her relative concerning his oriental experiences. Everard spoke of them in a light, agreeable way, avoiding the tone of instruction, and, in short, giving evidence of good taste. Roda listened with a look of civil interest, but asked no question, and smiled only when it was unavoidable. Presently the talk turned to things of home. "'Have you heard of your friend, Mr. Poppleton?' the hostess asked. "'Poppelton? Nothing whatever. I should like to see him.'

Starting point is 03:20:56 "'I'm sorry to tell you he is in a lunatic asylum.' As Barfoot kept the silence of astonishment, his cousin went on to tell him that the unhappy man seemed to have lost his wits among business troubles. "'Yet I should have suggested another explanation,' remarked the young man, in his most discreet tone. "'You never met Mrs. Poppleton?' Seeing that Miss Nunn had looked up with interest, he addressed himself to her. "'My friend Poppleton was one of the most delightful men, perhaps the best and kindest I ever knew, and so overflowing with natural wit and humour that there was no resisting his cheerful

Starting point is 03:21:34 influence. To the amazement of every one who knew him, he married, perhaps the dullest woman he could have found. Mrs. Poppleton not only never made a joke, but couldn't understand what joking meant. Only the flattest literalism was intelligible to her. She could follow nothing but the very macadum of conversation, had no palate for anything but the suet pudding of talk. Rode's eyes twinkled, and Miss Barfoot laughed. Everard was allowing himself a freedom in expression, which hitherto he had sedulously avoided. "'Yes,' he continued, "'she was by birth a lady, which made the infliction harder to bear.

Starting point is 03:22:12 Poor old Poppleton! Again and again I have heard him! What do you think, laboriously explaining jests to her? That was a trial, as you may imagine. There we sat, we three, in the unbeautiful little parlour, for they were anything but rich. Poppleton would say something that convulsed me with laughter, in spite of my efforts, for I always dreaded the result so much

Starting point is 03:22:33 that I strove my hardest to do no more than smile appreciation. My laugh compelled Mrs. Poppleton to stare at me. Oh, her eyes! Thereupon her husband began his dread performance. The patient, the heroic patience of that dear good fellow! I have known him explain and re-explain for a quarter of an hour, and invariably without success. It might be a mere pun.

Starting point is 03:22:59 Mrs. Poppleton no more understood the nature of a pun than of the binomial theorem. But worse was when the jest involved some allusion. When I heard Poplton begin to elucidate, to expound, the perspiration already on his forehead, I looked at him with imploring anguish. Why would he attempt the impossible? But the kind fellow couldn't disregard his wife's request. Shall I ever forget her? "'Oh, yes, I see.'

Starting point is 03:23:27 When obviously she saw nothing but the wall at which she sat staring. "'I have known her like,' said Miss Barfoot merrily. "'I am convinced that his manness didn't come from business anxiety. It was the necessity ever recurring ever before him of expounding jokes to his wife. Believe me, it was nothing but that.' "'It seems very probable,' asserted Rhoda dryly. "'Then there's another friend of yours who's a friend of yours who's his marriage has been unfortunate," said the hostess.

Starting point is 03:23:57 They tell me that Mr. Orchard has forsaken his wife, and without intelligible reason." There, too, I can offer an explanation," replied Barfoot quietly, though you may doubt whether it justifies him. I met Orchard a few months ago in Alexandria, met him by chance in the street, and didn't recognize him until he spoke to me. He was worn to skin and bone. I found that he had abandoned all his possessions to Mrs. tortured, and just kept himself alive on casual work for the magazines, wondering about the

Starting point is 03:24:29 shores of the Mediterranean like an uneasy spirit. He showed me the thing he had last written, and I see it is published in this month's Macmillan. Do read it—an exquisite description of a night in Alexandria. One of these days he will starve to death. A pity! He might have done fine work. But we await your explanation.

Starting point is 03:24:50 What business had he to desert his wife and children? Let me give an account of a day I spent with him at Tintan, not long before I left England. He and his wife were having a holiday there, and I called on them. We went to walk about the Abbey. Now, for some two hours—I will be strictly truthful— whilst we were in the midst of that lovely scenery—Mrs. Orchard discoursed unceasingly of one subject—the difficulty she had with her domestic servants. Ten or twelve of these handmaidens were marshalled before our imagination.

Starting point is 03:25:24 names, their ages, their antecedents, the wages they received were carefully specified. We listened to a catalogue raison of the plates, cups, and other utensils that they had broken. We heard of the enormities which in each case led to their dismissal. Orchard tried repeatedly to change the subject, but only with the effect of irritating his wife. What could he or I do but patiently give ear? Our walk was ruined, but there was no help for it. Now be good enough to extend this kind of thing over a night.

Starting point is 03:25:54 number of years. Picture Orchard sitting down in his home to literary work, and liable at any moment to an invasion from Mrs. Orchard, who comes to tell him at great length that the butcher is charged for a joint they have not consumed, or something of that kind. He assured me that his choice lay between flight and suicide, and I firmly believed him. As he concluded his eyes met those of Miss Nunn, and the latter suddenly spoke. Why will men marry fools?" Barfoot was startled. He looked down into his plate, smiling.

Starting point is 03:26:30 "'A most sensible question,' said the hostess with a laugh. "'Why, indeed?' "'But a difficult one to answer,' remarked Everard with his most restrained smile. "'Possibly Miss Nunn, narrow social opportunity has something to do with it. They must marry someone, and in the case of most men, choices seriously restricted.' i should have thought replied rhoda elevating her eyebrows that to live alone was the less of two evils undoubtedly but men like these two we've been speaking of haven't a very logical mind miss barfoot changed the topic when not long after the ladies left him to meditate over his glass of wine everard curiously surveyed the room then his eyelids drooped he smiled absently and a calm sigh seemed to relieve his chest. The claret had no particular quality to recommend it, and in any case he would

Starting point is 03:27:27 have drunk very little, for as regards the bottle his nature was abstemious. "'It is as I expected,' Miss Barfoot was saying to her friend in the drawing-room. "'He has changed very noticeably.' "'Mr. Barfoot isn't quite the man your remarks that suggested to me,' Broda replied. "'I fancy he is no longer the man I knew. His manners are wonderfully improved.' He used to assert himself in rather alarming ways. His letter, to be sure, had the old tone, or something of it. "'I will go to the library for an hour,' said Rhoda, who had not seated herself.

Starting point is 03:28:06 Mr. Barfoot won't leave before ten, I suppose. I don't think there will be any private talk. Still, if you will let me.' So, when Everard appeared, he found his cousin alone. "'What are you going to do?' She asked of him good-naturedly. "'Do-do, you mean how do I propose to employ myself? I have nothing whatever in view, beyond enjoying life.'

Starting point is 03:28:32 "'At your age?' "'So young, or so old?' "'Which?' "'So young, of course. You deliberately intend to waste your life?' "'To enjoy it,' I said. "'I am not prompted to any business or profession. That's all over for me.

Starting point is 03:28:49 I have learned all I care to of the active world.' "'But what do you understand by enjoyment?' asked Miss Barfoot with knitted brows. "'Isn't the spectacle of existence quite enough to occupy one through a lifetime? If a man merely travelled, could he possibly exhaust all the beauties and magnificences that are offered to him in every country? For ten years and more I worked as hard as any man. I shall never regret it, for it has given me a feeling of liberty and opportunity such as I should not have if I had always lived at my ease. It taught me a great deal, too, supplemented my so-called education as nothing else could have done. But to work for ever is to lose half of life.

Starting point is 03:29:31 I can't understand those people who reconcile themselves to quitting the world without having seen a millionth part of it. I am quite reconciled to that. An infinite picture-gallory isn't my idea of enjoyment. Nor mine, but an infinite series of modes of living. A-seas-a-seeked a ceaseless exercise of all one's faculties of pleasure. That sounds shameless to you. I can't understand why it should. Why is the man who toils more meritorious than he who enjoys?

Starting point is 03:30:00 What is the sanction for this judgment? Social usefulness, Everard? I admit the demand for social usefulness up to a certain point. But really I have done my share. The mass of men don't toil with any such ideal, but merely to keep themselves alive or to get wealth. I think there is a vast amount of unnecessary labour. There is an old proverb about Satan and idle hands.

Starting point is 03:30:27 Pardon me, you alluded to that personage in your letter. The proverb is a very true one, but like other proverbs it applies to the multitude. If I get into mischief it will not be because I don't perspire for so many hours every day, but simply because to be human is to air. I have no intention whatever of getting into mischief. The speaker stroked his beard and smiled with a distant look. "'Your purpose is intensely selfish, and all indulged selfishness reacts on the character,' replied Miss Barfoot, still in a tone of the friendliest criticism.

Starting point is 03:31:03 "'My dear cousin, for anything to be selfish, it must be a deliberate refusal of what one believes to be duty. I don't admit that I am neglecting any duty to others, and the duty to myself seems very clear indeed." "'Of that I have no doubt,' exclaimed the other, laughing. "'I see that you have refined your arguments. Not my arguments only, I hope,' said Everard modestly. "'My time has been very ill spent if I haven't in some degree refined my nature.'

Starting point is 03:31:36 "'That sounds very well, Everard, but when it comes to degrees of self-indulgence,' she paused and made a gesture of dissatisfaction. It comes to that, surely, with every man. But we certainly shall not agree on this subject. You stand at the social point of view. I am an individualist. You have the advantage of a tolerably consistent theory, whilst I have no theory at all, and am full of contradictions.

Starting point is 03:32:04 The only thing clear to me is that I have a right to make the most of my life. No matter at whose expense? You are quite mistaken. My conscience is a tender one. I dread to do anyone an injury. That has always been true of me, in spite of your skeptical look, and the tendency increases as I grow older. Let us have done with so unimportant a matter.

Starting point is 03:32:27 Isn't Miss Nunn able to rejoin us? She will come presently, I think. How did you make this lady's acquaintance?' Miss Barfoot explained the circumstances. "'She makes an impression,' resumed Everard, A strong character, of course. More decidedly one of the new women than you yourself, isn't she? Oh, I am a very old-fashioned woman. Women have thought as I do at any time in history. Miss Nunn has much more zeal for womanhood militant. I should delight to talk with her.

Starting point is 03:33:02 Really, you know, I am very strongly on your side. Miss Barfoot laughed. Oh, sophist! You despise women. Why, yes, the great majority of women, the typical woman, all the more reason for my admiring the exceptions, and wishing to see them become more common. You undoubtedly despise the average woman. I despise no human being, Everard. Oh, in a sense.

Starting point is 03:33:29 But Miss Nun, I feel sure, would agree with me? I am very sure Miss Nunn wouldn't. She doesn't admire the feebler female, but that is very far from being at one with your point of you, my cousin?" Everard mused with a smile. "'I must get to understand her line of thought. You permit me to call upon you now and then?' "'Oh, whenever you like in the evening—'

Starting point is 03:33:52 "'Except,' Miss Barford added, Wednesday evening. Then we are always engaged. Summer holidays are unknown to you, I suppose. Not altogether. I had mine a few weeks ago. Miss Nunn will be going away in a fortnight, I think. before ten o'clock, when Barfoot was talking of some acquaintance he had in Japan, Rhoda entered the room. She seemed little disposed for conversation, and Everard did not care to assail her

Starting point is 03:34:21 taciturnity this evening. He talked on a little longer, observing her as she listened, and presently took an opportunity to rise for departure. "'Wednesday is the forbidden evening, is it not?' he said to his cousin. "'Yes, that is devoted to business.' As soon as he had gone, The friends exchanged a look. Each understood the other as referring to this point of Wednesday evening, but neither made a remark. They were silent for some time. When Rhoda at length spoke, it was in a tone of half-indifferent curiosity. "'You are sure you haven't exaggerated, Mr. Barfoot's failings?' The reply was delayed for a moment. "'I was a little indiscreet to speak of him at all. But no, I didn't exaggerate.'

Starting point is 03:35:10 Curious, mused the other dispassionately, as she stood with one foot on the fender. "'He hardly strikes me as that kind of man.' "'Oh, he has certainly changed a great deal.' The sparfoot went on to speak of her cousin's resolve to pursue no calling. "'His means are very modest. I feel rather guilty before him. His father bequeathed to me much of the money that would in the natural course have been Everard's, but he is quite superior to any feeling of grudge on that school.' Practically his father disinherited him?"

Starting point is 03:35:43 It amounted to that. From quite a child Everard was at odds with his father. A strange thing, for in so many respects they resemble each other very closely. Physically Everard is his father walking the earth again. In character, too, I think they must be very much alike. They couldn't talk about the simplest thing without disagreeing. My uncle had risen from the ranks, but he disliked to be reminded of it. He disliked the commerce by which he made his fortune.

Starting point is 03:36:11 His desire was to win social position. If Baron at sea could be purchased in our time he would have given a huge sum to acquire one. But he never distinguished himself, and one of the reasons was, no doubt, that he married too soon. I have heard him speak bitterly, and very indiscreetly of early marriages. His wife was dead then, but every one knew what he meant. when one thinks how often a woman is a clog upon man's ambition, no wonder they regard us as they do. Of course, women are always retarding one thing or another, but men are intensely stupid

Starting point is 03:36:47 not to have remedied that long ago. He determined that his boy should be gentlemen. Tom, the elder, followed his wishes exactly. He was remarkably clever, but idleness spoilt him, and now he has made that ridiculous marriage, the end of poor Tom. Everard went to Eaton, and the school had a remarkable effect upon him. It made him a furious radical. Instead of imitating the young aristocrats he hated and scorned them. There must have been great force of originality in the boy. Of course I don't know whether any Etonians of his time preached radicalism, but it seems unlikely. I think it was sheer vigour of character, and the strange desire to oppose his father and everything. From Eaton he was of course, he was of

Starting point is 03:37:34 course to pass to Oxford, but at that stage came practical rebellion. No, said the boy, he wouldn't go to a university to fill his head with useless learning. He had made up his mind to be an engineer. This was an astonishment to everyone. Engineering didn't seem at all the thing for him. He had very little ability in mathematics, and his bent had always been to liberal studies. But nothing could shake his idea. He had got it into his head that only some such work as engineering, something of a practical kind that called for strength and craftsmanship, was worthy of a man with his opinions.

Starting point is 03:38:11 He would rank with the classes that keep the world going with their sturdy toil. That was how he spoke. And after a great fight he had his way. He left Eaton to study civil engineering. Roda was listening with an amused smile. Then, pursued her friend, came another display of firmness, or obstinacy which you like to call it. He soon found out that he had made a complete mistake. The studies didn't suit him at all, as others had foreseen. But he would have worked himself to death rather than confess

Starting point is 03:38:45 his error. None of us knew how he was feeling till long after. Engineering he had chosen, and an engineer he would be cost him what effort it might. His father shouldn't triumph over him. And from the age of eighteen till nearly thirty he stuck to a profession which I am sure he loathed. By force of resolve he even got on to it, and reached a good position with the firm he worked for. Of course his father wouldn't assist him with money after he came of age. He had to make his way just like any young man who has no influence. All this puts him in quite another light, remarked Rhoda. Yes, it would be all very well, if there were no vices to add to the picture.

Starting point is 03:39:29 I never experienced such a revulsion of feeling as the day when I learnt shameful things. about Everard. You know I always regarded him as a boy, and very much as if he had been my younger brother. Then came the shock—a shock that had a great part in shaping my life thenceforward. Since I have thought of him as I have spoken of him to you, as an illustration of evils we have to combat. A man of the world would tell you that I grossly magnified trifles. It is very likely that Everard was on a higher moral level than most men. But I shall never forgive him for destroying my faith in his honour and nobility of feeling." Rhoda had a puzzled look.

Starting point is 03:40:10 "'Perhaps even now you are unintentionally misleading me,' she said. "'I have supposed him an outrageous profligate.' He was vicious and cowardly. I can't say any more. And that was the immediate cause of his father's leaving him poorly provided for? It had much to do with it, I have no doubt. I see. I imagined that he was cast out of all decent society. If society were really decent, he would have been. It's strange how completely his radicalism

Starting point is 03:40:43 has disappeared. I believe he never had a genuine sympathy with the labouring classes. And what's more, I fancy he had a great deal of his father's desire for command and social distinction. If he had seen his way to become a great engineer, a director of vast enterprises, he wouldn't have abandoned his work. And incredible stubbornness has possibly spoilt his whole life. In a congenial pursuit he might by this time have attained to something noteworthy. It's too late now, I fear. Roda meditated.

Starting point is 03:41:16 Does he aim at nothing whatever? He won't admit any ambition. He has no society. His friends are nearly all obscure people, like those you heard him speak of this evening. After all, what ambition does he do you do? should he have," said Rhoda with a laugh. "'There's one advantage in being a woman.

Starting point is 03:41:35 A woman with brains and will may hope to distinguish herself in the greatest movement of our time, that of emancipating her sex. But what can a man do, unless he has genius?' There's the emancipation of the working classes. That is the great sphere for men. And Everard cares no more for the working classes than I do. Isn't it enough to be free oneself? You mean that he has task enough in striving to be an honourable man?

Starting point is 03:42:04 Perhaps. I hardly know what I meant. Miss Barfoot mused, and her face lighted up with a glad thought. You are right. It's better to be a woman in our day. With us is all the joy of advance, the glory of conquering. Men have only material progress to think about. But we—we are winning souls, propagating a new religion.

Starting point is 03:42:29 religion, purifying the earth." Roda nodded thrice. "'My cousin is a fine specimen of a man, after all, and body and mind. But what a poor ineffectual creature compared with you, Rhoda! I don't flatter you, dear, I tell you bluntly of your faults and extravagances. But I am proud of your magnificent independence, proud of your pride, dear, and of your stainless heart. Thank heaven we are women."

Starting point is 03:42:58 it was rare indeed for miss barfoot to be moved to rhapsody again rhoda nodded and then they laughed together with joyous confidence in themselves and in their cause end of chapter eight chapter nine of the odd women this librivox recording is in the public domain recording by elizabeth clet the odd women by george gissing chapter nine The simple faith Seated in the reading-room of a club to which he had newly procured admission, Everard Barfoot was glancing over the advertisement columns of a literary paper. His eye fell on an announcement that had a personal interest to him, and at once he went to the writing-table to pen a letter. Dear Micklethwaite! I am back in England, and ought before this to have written to you.

Starting point is 03:43:54 I see you have just published a book with an alarming time. title, A Treatise on Tri-Linear Co-Wordinates. My hearty congratulations on the completion of such a labour. Were you not the most disinterested of mortals, I would add a hope that it may somehow benefit you financially. I presume there are people who purchase such works. But, of course, the main point with you is to have delivered your soul on tri-linear coordinates. Shall I run down to Sheffield to see you? Or is there any chance of the holidays bring you this way. I have found a cheap flat, poorly furnished in Bayswater. The man who let it to me happens to be an engineer, and is absent on Italian railway work for a year or so. My stay in London won't, I think, be for longer than six months, but we must see each other, and talk over old times." This he addressed to a school at Sheffield. The answer, directed to the club, reached him in three days.

Starting point is 03:44:58 My dear Barfoot, I also am in London. Your letter has been forwarded from the school, which I quitted last Easter. Disinterested or not, I am happy to tell you that I have got a vastly better appointment. Let me know when and where to meet you. Or, if you like, come to these lodgings of mine. I don't enter upon duties till the end of October, and at present revelling in mathematical freedom. There's a great deal to tell. sincerely yours thomas micklethwaite having no occupation for his morning barfoot went at once to the obscure little street by primrose hill where his friend was lodging he reached the house about noon and as he had anticipated found the mathematician deep in study micklethwaite was a man of forty bent in the shoulders sallow but not otherwise of unhealthy appearance he had a merry countenance a great deal of lank disorderly hair and a beard that reached to the middle of his waistcoat everard's acquaintance with him dated from ten years ago when micklethwaite had acted as his private tutor in mathematics the room was a musty little back parlor on the ground floor

Starting point is 03:46:10 "'Quiet—perfectly quiet,' declared its occupant. "'And that's all I care for. Two other lodgers in the house, but they go to business every morning at half-past eight, and are in bed by ten at night. Besides, it's only temporary. I've great things in view. Portentous changes. I'll tell you all about it presently.'

Starting point is 03:46:32 He insisted, first of all, on hearing a full account of Barfoot's history since they both met. They had corresponded about twice a year, but Everard was not fond of letter-writing, and on each occasion gave only the briefest account of himself. In listening, Micklethwaite assumed extraordinary positions, the result, presumably, of a need of physical exercise after hours spent over his work. Now he stretched himself at full length on the edge of his chair. His arms extended above him. Now he drew up his legs, fixed his feet on the chair, and locked his hands round his knees. Thus perched, he swayed his body backwards and forwards, till it seemed likely that he would pitch head foremost on to the floor. Barfoot knew these eccentricities of old, and paid no

Starting point is 03:47:18 attention to them. "'And what is the appointment you have got?' he asked at length, dismissing his own affairs with impatience. It was that of mathematical lecturer at a London college. "'I shall have a hundred and fifty a year, and be able to take private pupils, on two hundred at least I can count, and there are possibilities I won't venture to speak of, because it doesn't do to be too hopeful. Two hundred a year is a great advance for me.'

Starting point is 03:47:45 "'Quite enough, I suppose,' said Everard kindly. "'No, not enough. I must make a little more somehow.' "'Hello? Why, this spirit of avarice all at once?' The mathematician gave a shrill, cackling laugh, and rolled upon his chair. "'I must have more than two hundred. I should be satisfied with three hundred, but I'll take as much more as I can get."

Starting point is 03:48:10 My revered tutor, this is shameless. I came to pay my respect to a philosopher, and I find a sordid worldling. Look at me. I am a man of the largest needs, spiritual and physical, and yet I make my pittance of four hundred and fifty suffice and never grumble. Perhaps you aim at an income equal to my own. I do. What's four hundred and fifty? If you were a man of enterprise, you would double or treble it. I put a high value on money. I wish to be rich. You are either mad, or are going to get married." Micklethwaite cackled louder than ever.

Starting point is 03:48:52 I am planning a new algebra for school use. If I'm not much mistaken, I can turn out something that will supplant all the present books. Think! If Micklethwaite's algebra got accepted in all the schools, What would that mean to Mick? Hundreds a year, my boy, hundreds! I never knew you so indecent. I am renewing my youth. Nay, for the first time I am youthful. I never had time for it before.

Starting point is 03:49:21 At the age of sixteen, I began to teach in a school, and ever since I have pegged away at it, school and private. Now luck has come to me, and I feel five and twenty. When I was really five and twenty, I felt forty. Well, what is that to do with money-making? After Mix-Algebra would naturally follow Mix-Arythmic, Mix-Euclid, Mix-trigonometry. Twenty years hence I should have an income of thousands, thousands! I would then cease to teach, resign my professorship, that is to say, for of course I should

Starting point is 03:49:55 be professor, and devote myself to a great work on probability. Many a man has become the best of his life at sixty, the most enjoyable part of it, I mean. Barfoot was perplexed. He knew his friend's turn for humorous exaggeration, but it never once heard him scheme for material advancement, and evidently this present talk meant something more than a jest. "'Am I right, or not? You are going to get married?' Micklethwaite glanced at the door, then said in a tone of caution. "'I don't care to talk about it here. Let us go somewhere and eat together. I invite you to

Starting point is 03:50:33 have dinner with me, or lunch, as I suppose you would call it, in your aristocratic language. No, you had better have lunch with me. Come to my club. Confound your impudence! Am I not your father in mathematics? Be so good as to put on a decent pair of trousers and brush your hair. Ah, here is your trilinear production. I'll look over it whilst you make yourself presentable. There's a bad misprint in the preface. Let me show you. It's all the same to me, my dear fellow." But Micklethwaite was not content until he had indicated the error, and had talked for five minutes about the absurdities that it involved. "'How do you suppose I got the thing published?' he then asked.

Starting point is 03:51:18 "'Old Bennet, the Sheffield headmaster, is security for loss if the book doesn't pay for itself in two years' time. Kind of him, wasn't it?' He pressed the offer upon me, and I think he's prouder of the book than I am myself. But it's quite remarkable how kind people are when one is fortunate. I fancy a great deal of nonsense is talked about the world's enviousness. Now, as soon as it got known that I was coming to this post in London, people behaved to me with surprising good nature all round. Old Bennett talked in quite an affectionate strain.

Starting point is 03:51:50 Of course, he said, I have long known that you ought to be in a better place than this. Your payment is altogether inadequate. If it had depended upon me, I should long ago have increased it. I truly rejoice that you have found a more fitting sphere for your remarkable abilities. No, I maintain that the world is always ready to congratulate you with sincerity, if you will only give it a chance. Very gracious of you to give it the chance. But, by the by, how did it come about?

Starting point is 03:52:19 Yes, I ought to tell you that. Why, about a year ago, I wrote an answer to a communication signed by a big gun in one of the scientific papers. It was a question in probability. You wouldn't understand it. My answer was printed, and the big gun wrote privately to me, a very flattering letter. That correspondence led to my appointment. The big gun exerted himself on my behalf. The fact is the world is bursting with good nature.

Starting point is 03:52:45 Obviously. And how long did it take you to write this little book? Oh, only about seven years, the actual composition. I never had much time to myself, you must remember. You're a good soul, Thomas. Go and equip yourself for civilized society." To the club they repaired on foot. Micklethwaite would talk of anything but that which his companion most desired to hear.

Starting point is 03:53:11 "'There are solemnities in life,' he answered to an impatient question. Things that can't be spoken of in the highway. When we have eaten let us go to your flat, and there I will tell you everything." They lunched joyously. The mathematician drank a bottle of excellent hawk, and did corresponding justice to the dishes. His eyes gleamed with happiness. Again he enlarged upon the benevolence of mankind, and the admirable ordering of the world. From the club they drove to Bayswater, and made themselves comfortable in Barfoot's flat, which was very

Starting point is 03:53:45 plainly but sufficiently furnished. Mikkelthwaite, cigar and mouth, threw his legs over the side of the easy-chair in which he was sitting. "'Now,' he began gravely, "'I don't mind telling you that your conjecture was right. I I am going to be married." "'Well,' said the other, "'you have reached the age of discretion. I must suppose that you know what you are about.' "'Yes, I think I do.

Starting point is 03:54:11 The story is unexciting. I am not a romantic person, nor is my future wife. Now, you must know that when I was about twenty-three years old I fell in love. You never suspected me of that, I dare say.' "'Why not?' "'Well, I did fall in love. The lady was a clergyman's daughter at Hereford, where I had a place in a school. She taught the infants in an elementary school connected with ours.

Starting point is 03:54:36 Her age was exactly the same as my own. Now the remarkable thing was that she took a liking for me, and when I was scoundrel enough to tell her of my feeling she didn't reject me. Scoundrel enough? Why scoundrel? Why? But I hadn't a penny in the world. I lived at the school and received a salary of thirty pounds,

Starting point is 03:54:56 half of which had to go toward the support of my mother. What could possibly have been more villainous? What earthly prospect was there of my being able to marry? Well, grant the monstrosity of it. This lady, a very little lower than the angels, declared that she was content to wait an indefinite time. She believed in me, and hoped for my future. Her father—the mother was dead, sanctioned our engagement.

Starting point is 03:55:24 She had three sisters. One of them are governess, another keeping house, and the third a blind girl—excellent people, all of them. I was at their house as often as possible, and they made much of me. It was a pity, you know, for in those few leisure hours I ought to have been working like a nigger. Plainly you ought. Fortunately, I left Hereford, and went to school at Gloucester, where I had thirty-five pounds.

Starting point is 03:55:50 How we gloried over that extra five pounds! But it was no use going on with the story in this way. it would take me till to-morrow morning. Seven years went by. We were thirty years old, and no prospect whatever of our engagement coming to anything. I had worked pretty hard. I had taken my London degree, but not a penny had I saved, and all I could spare was still needful to my mother.

Starting point is 03:56:12 It struck me all at once that I had no right to continue the engagement. On my thirtieth birthday I wrote a letter to Fanny—that is her name, and begged her to be free. Now, would you have done the same, or not? Really, I am not imaginative enough to put myself in such a position. It would need a stupendous effort at all events. But was there anything gross in the proceeding? The lady took it ill? Not in the sense of being offended, but she said it had caused her much suffering.

Starting point is 03:56:45 She begged me to consider myself free. She would remain faithful, and if in time to come I cared to write to her again— After all these years I can't speak of it without huskiness. It seemed to me that I had behaved more like a scoundrel than ever. I thought I had better kill myself, and even planned ways of doing it. I did indeed. But after all we decided that our engagement should continue. Of course? You think it natural? Well, the engagement has continued till this day. A month ago I was forty, so that we have waited for seventeen years. Micklethwaite paused on a note of R.

Starting point is 03:57:24 Two of Fanny sisters are dead. They never married. The blind one Fanny has long supported, and she will come to live with us. Long, long ago we had both of us given up thought of marriage. I have never spoken to any one of the engagement. It was something too absurd, and also too sacred. The smile died from Everard's face, and he sat in thought. Now, when are you going to marry?

Starting point is 03:57:49 cried Micklethwaite, with a revival of his cheerfulness. "'Probably never.' "'Then I think you will neglect a grave duty. Yes, it is the duty of every man who has sufficient means to maintain a wife. The life of unmarried women is a wretched one. Every man who is able ought to save one of them from that fate.' "'I should like my cousin Mary and her female friends to hear you talk in that way. They would overwhelm you with scorn.'

Starting point is 03:58:17 "'Not sincere scorn. is my belief. Of course I have heard of that kind of woman. Tell me something about them." Barfoot was led on to a broad expression of his views. "'I admire your old-fashioned sentiment, Micklethwaite. It sits well on you, and you're a fine fellow. But I have much more sympathy with the new idea that women should think of marriage only as men do. I mean not to go up in the thought that they must marry or be blighted creatures. My own views are rather extreme, perhaps. Strictly I don't believe in marriage at all.

Starting point is 03:58:53 And I haven't anything like the respect for women, as women, that you have. You belong to the Ruskin School. And I—well, perhaps my experience has been unusual, though I don't think so. You know, by the by, that my relatives consider me a blackguard. That affair you told me about some years ago. Chiefly that. I have a good mind to tell you the story. I didn't care to at the time.

Starting point is 03:59:19 I accepted the charge of blaggotism. It didn't matter much. My cousin will never forgive me, though she has an air of friendliness once more. And I suspect she had told her friend Miss Nunn all about me. Perhaps to put Miss Nunn on her guard! Heaven knows! He laughed merrily.

Starting point is 03:59:38 Miss Nun, I dare say, needs no protection against you. I had an odd thought whilst I was there. Everard leaned his head back and half-closed his eyes. "'Miss Nunn, I warrant, considers herself proof against any kind of wooing. She is one of the grandly severe women. A terror, I imagine, to any young girl at their place who betrays weak thoughts of matrimony. Now it's rather a temptation to a man of my kind. There would be something piquant in making vigorous love to Miss Nunn, just to prove her sincerity.'

Starting point is 04:00:13 Micklethwaite shook his head. Unworthy of you, Barfoot. Of course you couldn't really do such a thing. But such women really challenge one. If she were rich, I think I could do it without scruple. You seem to be taking it for granted, said the mathematician, smiling, that this lady would—would respond to your love-making.

Starting point is 04:00:37 I confess to you that women have spoiled me, and I am rather resentful when any one cries out against me for lack of respect to womanhood. I have been the victim of this groundless veneration for females. Now, you shall hear the story, and bear in mind that you were the only person to whom I have ever told it. I never tried to defend myself when I was vilified on all hands. Probably the attempt would have been useless.

Starting point is 04:01:03 And then it certainly would have increased the odium in which I stood. I think I'll tell Cousin Mary the truth some day. It would be good for her. The listener looked uneasy, but curious. Well, now, I was staying in the summer with some friends of ours at a little place called Upchurch, on a branch line from Oxford. The people were well to do—goodall, their name, and went in for philanthropy. Mrs. Goodall always had a lot of Upchurch girls about her, educated and not.

Starting point is 04:01:33 Her idea was to civilise one class by means of the other, and to give a new spirit to both. My cousin Mary was staying at the house whilst I was there. She had more reasonable views than Mrs. Goodall, but took a great interest in what was going on. Now, one of the girls in process of spiritualisation was called Amy Drake. In the ordinary course of things I shouldn't have met her, but she served in a shop where I went two or three times to get a newspaper. We talked a little, with absolute propriety on my part, I assure you, and she knew that I was a friend of the Goodalls. The girl had no parents, and she was on the point of going to London to live with a married sister. It happened that by the very train which took me back to London, when my visit was over,

Starting point is 04:02:17 this girl also travelled, and alone. I saw her at Upchurch Station, but we didn't speak, and I got into a smoking-carriage. We had a change at Oxford, and there, as I walked about the platform, Amy put herself in my way, so that I was obliged to begin talking with her. This behaviour rather surprised me. I wondered what Mrs. Goodall would think of it. But perhaps it was a sign of innocent freedom in the intercourse of men and women. At all events Amy managed to get me into the same carriage with herself, and on the way to London we were alone. You foresee the end of it.

Starting point is 04:02:53 At Paddington Station the girl and I went off together, and she didn't get to her sisters till the evening. Of course I take it for granted that you believe my account of the matter. Miss Drake was by no means the spiritual young person that Mrs. Goodall thought her, or hoped to make her. Plainly she was a reprobate of experience. This, you will say, doesn't alter the fact that I also behaved like a reprobate. No, from the moralist's point of view I was to blame. But I had no moral pretensions, and it was too much to expect that I should rebuke the young

Starting point is 04:03:25 woman and preach of a sermon. You admit that, I dare say." The mathematician, frowning uncomfortably, gave a nod to her of assent." Amy was not only a reprobate, but a rascal. She betrayed me to the people at Upchurch, and, I am quite sure, meant from the first to do so. Imagine the outcry.

Starting point is 04:03:46 I had committed a monstrous crime, had led astray an innocent maiden, had outraged hospitality, and so on. In Amy's case there were awkward results. Of course I must marry the girl forthwith. But of course I was determined to do no such thing. thing. For the reasons I have explained, I let the storm break upon me. I had been a fool, to be sure, and couldn't help myself. No one would have believed my plea. No one would have allowed that the truth was an excuse. I was abused on all hands. And when, shortly after my father

Starting point is 04:04:21 made his will and died, doubtless he cut me off with my small annuity on this very account. My cousin Mary got a good deal of the money that would otherwise be mine. The old man had been on rather better terms with me just before that. In a will that he destroyed, I believe he had treated me handsomely. "'Well, well,' said Micklethwaite, "'everyone knows there are detestable women to be found, but you oughtn't to let this affect your view of women in general. What became of the girl?' "'I made her a small allowance for a year and a half. Then her child died, and the allowance ceased. I know nothing more of her. Probably she has inveigled someone. into marriage."

Starting point is 04:05:02 "'Well, Barfoot,' said the other, rolling about in his chair, my opinion remains the same. You are in debt to some worthy woman to the extent of half your income. Be quick and find her. It'll be better for you." "'And do you suppose?' asked Everard with a smile of indulgence, "'that I could marry on four hundred and fifty a year. Heavens!

Starting point is 04:05:27 Why not?' Quite impossible. A wife might be acceptable to me, but marriage and poverty. I know myself and the world too well for that. Poverty! screamed the mathematician. Four hundred and fifty pounds! Grinding poverty. For married people!

Starting point is 04:05:48 Mickle-thwaite burst into indignant eloquence, and Everard sat listening with the restrained smile on his lips. End of Chapter 9. Odd Women. This Librovoc's recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette. The Odd Women. By George Gissing. Chapter 10.

Starting point is 04:06:16 First Principles Having allowed exactly a week to go by, Everard Barfoot made use of his cousin's permission and called upon her at nine in the evening. Miss Barfoot's dinner hour was seven o'clock. She and Rhoda, when alone, rarely sat. for more than half an hour at table, and in this summer season they often went out together at sunset to enjoy a walk along the river. This evening they had returned only a few minutes before Everard's ring sounded at the door. Miss Barfoot—they were just entering the library,

Starting point is 04:06:52 looked at her friend and smiled. "'I shouldn't wonder if that is the young man—' Very flattering if he has come again so soon.' The visitor was in a mirthful humour, and and met with a reception of corresponding tone he remarked at once that miss nun had a much pleasanter aspect than a week ago her smile was ready and agreeable she sat in a sociable attitude and answered adjusting triviality with indulgence one of my reasons for coming to-day said everard was to tell you a remarkable story it connects he addressed his cousin with our talk about the matrimonial disaster of those two friends of mine. Do you remember the name of Micklethwaite, a man who used to cram with me in mathematics? I thought you would. He is on the point of marrying, and his engagement has lasted just seventeen years. The wisest of your friends, I should say.

Starting point is 04:07:54 An excellent fellow. He is forty, and the lady the same. An astonishing case of constancy. And how is it likely to turn out? I can't predict, as the lady is unknown to me, but—he added with facetious gravity. I think it likely that they are tolerably well acquainted with each other. Nothing but sheer poverty has kept them apart. Pathetic, don't you think? I have a theory that when an engagement has lasted ten years with constancy on both sides, and poverty still prevents marriage, the state ought to make

Starting point is 04:08:31 provision for a man in some way, according to his social standing. When one thinks of it, a whole socialistic system lies in that suggestion. If, remarked Rhoda, it were first provided that no marriage should take place until after a ten years' engagement. Yes, Barfoot assented, in his smoothest and most graceful tone. That completes the system, unless you like to add that no engagement is permitted except between people who who have passed a certain examination, equivalent, let us say, to that which confers a university degree.

Starting point is 04:09:08 "'Admirable! And no marriage, except where both for the whole decenium, have earned their living by work that the State recognises.' "'How would that affect Mr. Micklethwaite's betrothed?' asked Miss Barfoot. "'I believe she has supported herself all along by teaching.' "'Of course!' exclaimed the other impatiently. and more than likely not with loathing of her occupation the usual kind of drudgery was it after all there must be some one to teach children to read and write yes but people who are thoroughly well trained for the task and who take pleasure in it this lady may be an exception but i picture her as having spent a lifetime of uncongenial toil longing miserably for the day when poor mr micklethwaite was able to offer her a home

Starting point is 04:10:01 that's the ordinary teacher-woman and we must abolish her altogether how are you to do that inquired everard suavely the average man labours that he may be able to marry and the average woman certainly has the same end in view are female teachers to be vowed to celibacy nothing of the kind but girls are to be brought up to a calling in life just as men are it's because they have no calling that when need comes they all offer themselves as teachers they undertake one of the most difficult and arduous pursuits as if it was simple as washing up dishes we can't earn money in any other way but we can teach children a man only becomes a schoolmaster or tutor when he has gone through laborious preparation anything but wise or adequate of course, but still conscious preparation. And only a very few men comparatively choose that line of work. Women must have just as wide a choice." That's plausible, Cousin, Mary, but remember that when a man chooses his calling he chooses it for life. A girl cannot but remember that if she marries her calling at once changes. The old business is thrown aside, henceforth profitless.

Starting point is 04:11:17 No, not henceforth profitless. That's the very point. I insist upon. So far is it from profitless that it has made her a wholly different woman from what she would otherwise have been. Instead of a moping, mawkish creature, with, in most instances, a very unhealthy mind, she is a complete human being. She stands on an equality with the man. He can't despise her as he now does." "'Very good,' assented Everard, observing Miss Nun's satisfied smile. "'I like that for you very much. But what about the great number of girls who are claimed by domestic duties. Do you abandon them with a hopeless

Starting point is 04:11:56 side, be moping and mawkish and unhealthy? In the first place, there needn't be a great number of unmarried women claimed by such duties. Most of those you were thinking of are not fulfilling a duty at all. They are only pottering about the house because they have nothing better to do. And when the whole course of female education is altered, when girls are trained as a matter of course to some definite pursuit, then those who really are obliged to remain at home will do their duty there in quite a different spirit. Homework will be their serious business, instead of a disagreeable drudgery, or a way of getting through till the time of marriage offers, I would have no girl, however wealthy her parent, grow up without a profession.

Starting point is 04:12:40 There should be no such thing as a class of females vulgarised by the necessity of finding daily amusement. Nor of males, either, of course, put in Everard, stroking his beard. Nor of males either, cousin Everard. You thoroughly approve of all this, Miss Nun. Oh, yes, but I go further. I would have girls taught that marriage is a thing to be avoided rather than hoped for. I would teach them that, for the majority of women, marriage means disgrace.

Starting point is 04:13:11 Ah, now do let me understand you. Why does it mean disgrace? because the majority of men are without sense of honour to be bound to them in wedlock is shame and misery everard's eyelids drooped and he did not speak for a moment and you seriously think miss nunn that by persuading as many women is possible to abstain from marriage you will improve the character of men I have no hope of sudden results, Mr. Barfoot. I should like to save as many as possible of the women now living from a life of dishonour, but the spirit of our work looks to the future. When all women, high and low alike, are trained to self-respect, then men will regard them in a different light, and marriage may be honourable to both. Again Everard was silent and seemingly impressed. We'll go on with this discussion another time, said Miss Barfoot with cheerful interruption. Everard, do you know Somerset at all?' "'Never was in that part of England.'

Starting point is 04:14:10 "'Miss Nunn is going to take her holiday at Cheddar, and we have been looking over some photographs of that district taken by her brother.' From the table she reached a scrap-book, and Everard turned it over with interest. The views were evidently made by an amateur, but in general had no serious faults. Cheddar cliffs were represented in several aspects. I had no idea the scenery was so fine. Cheddar cheese as quite overshadowed the hills in my imagination. This might be a bit of Cumberland or of the Highlands.

Starting point is 04:14:42 It was my playground when I was a child, said Rhoda. You were born at Cheddar? No, at Axbridge, a little place, not far off. But I had an uncle at Cheddar, a farmer, and very often stayed with him. My brother is farming there now. Axbridge? Here is a view of the marketplace. What a delightful old town!

Starting point is 04:15:04 One of the sleepiest spots in England, I should say. The railway goes through it now, but hasn't made the slightest difference. Nobody pulls down or builds. Nobody opens a new shop. Nobody thinks of extending its trade. A delicious place! But surely you find no pleasure in that kind of thing, Miss Nun? Oh, yes, at holiday time.

Starting point is 04:15:25 I shall doze there for a fortnight, and forget all about the so-called nineteenth century. I can hardly believe it. There will be a disgraceful marriage at this beautiful old church, and the sight of it will exasperate you.' Roda laughed gaily. "'Oh, it will be a marriage of the golden age. Perhaps I shall remember the bride when she was a little girl, and I shall give her a kiss, and pat her on the rosy cheek and wish her joy. And the bridegroom will be such a good-hearted simpleton, unable to pronounce F and S.

Starting point is 04:15:54 I don't mind that sort of marriage a bit.' The listeners were both regarding her. Miss Barfoot, with an affectionate smile, Everard with a puzzled searching look, ending in amusement. "'I must run down into that country some day,' said the latter. He did not stay much longer, but left only because he feared to burden the ladies with too much of his company. Again a week passed, and the same evening found Barfoot approaching the house in Queen's Road. To his great annoyance he learned that Miss Barfoot was not at home. She had dined, but afterwards had gone out.

Starting point is 04:16:29 He did not venture to ask for Miss Nunn, and was moving disappointedly away, when Rhoda herself, returning from a walk, came up to the door. She offered her hand gravely, but with friendliness. Miss Barfoot, I am sorry to say, has gone to visit one of our girls who is ill, but I think she'll be back very soon. Will you come in? Gladly, I had so counted on an hour's talk. Roda led him into the drawing-room, excused herself for a few moments, and came back in her ordinary evening dress. Farfoot noticed that her hair was much more becomingly arranged than when he first saw her. So it had been on the last occasion, but for some reason its appearance attracted his eyes this evening. He scrutinized her at discrete intervals, from head to foot.

Starting point is 04:17:16 To Everard, nothing female was alien. Woman, merely as woman, interested him profoundly. And this example of her sex had excited his curiosity in no common degree. His concern with her was purely intellectual. She had no sensual attraction for him, but he longed to see further into her mind, to probe the sincerity of the motives she professed, to understand her mechanism, her process of growth. Hitherto he had enjoyed no opportunity of studying this type, for his cousin was a very different person. By habit he regarded her as old, whereas Miss Nunn, in spite of her thirty years, could not possibly be considered past youth. He enjoyed her. He enjoyed her. her air of equality. She sat down with him as a male acquaintance might have done, and he felt

Starting point is 04:18:04 sure that her behaviour would be the same under any circumstances. He delighted in the frankness of her speech. It was doubtful whether she regarded any subject as improper for discussion between mature and serious people. Part cause of this, perhaps, was her calm consciousness that she had not a beautiful face. No, it was not beautiful. Yet even at the first meeting it did not repel him. Studying her features, he saw how fine was their expression. The prominent forehead, with its little unevenness that meant brains. The straight eyebrows, strongly marked, with deep vertical furrows generally drawn between them. The chestnut-brown eyes with long lashes.

Starting point is 04:18:45 The high-bridged nose, thin and delicate, the intellectual lips, a protrusion of the lower one, though very slight, marking itself when he caught her profile. the big strong chin, the shapely neck. Why, after all, it was a kind of beauty. The head might have been sculptured with fine effect, and she had a well-built frame. He observed her strong wrists, with exquisite vein-tracings on the pure white. Probably her constitution was very sound. She had good teeth, and a healthy brownish complexion. With reference to the sick girl whom Miss Barfoot was visiting, Everard began what was practically a resumption of their last talk.

Starting point is 04:19:26 "'Have you a formal society?' With rules and so on. "'Oh, no, nothing of the kind.' But you, of course, select the girls whom you instruct or employ.' "'Very carefully.' "'How I should like to see them all. I mean,' he added with a laugh. "'It would be so very interesting.

Starting point is 04:19:45 The truth is, my sympathies are strongly with you in much of what you said the other day about women and marriage. We regard the matter from different points of view, but our end are the same." Rhoda moved her eyebrows and asked calmly, "'Are you serious?' "'Perfectly. You are absorbed in your present work, that of strengthening women's minds and character.

Starting point is 04:20:07 For the final issue of this you can't care much. But to me that is the practical interest. In my mind you were working for the happiness of men.' "'Indeed?' escaped Rhoda's lips, which had curled in irony. Don't misunderstand me. I am not speaking cynically or trivially. The gain of women is also the gain of men. You are bitter against the average man for his low morality. But that fault, on the whole, is directly traceable to the ignobleness of women. Think, and you will grant me this. I see what you mean. Men have themselves to thank for it." Assuredly they have. I say that I am on your side. Our civilization in this point has always been absurdly defective. men have kept women at a barbarous stage of development, and then complain that they are barbarous.

Starting point is 04:20:57 In the same way, society does its best to create a criminal class, and then rages against the criminals. But, you see, I am one of the men, and an impatient one, too. The mass of women I see about me are so contemptible that in my haste I use unjust language. Put yourself in the man's place. Say that there are a million or so of us very intelligent and highly educated, while the women of corresponding mind number perhaps a few thousands. The vast majority of men must make a marriage that is doomed to be a dismal failure. We fall in love, it is true, but do we really deceive ourselves about the future? A very young man may—why we know a very young man who are so frantic

Starting point is 04:21:37 as to marry girls of the working class, mere lumps of human flesh—but most of us know that our marriage is a p. Allé. At first we are sad about it, then we grow cynical, and snap our fingers at moral obligation. Making a bad case very much worse, instead of bravely bettering it. Yes, but human nature is human nature. I am only urging to you the case of average intelligent men—as likely as not—so preposterous are our conventions—you have never heard it put honestly. I tell you the simple truth when I say that more than half these men regard their wives

Starting point is 04:22:14 with active disgust. They will do anything to be relieved of the sight of them for as many hours as possible at a time. If circumstances allowed, wives would be abandoned very often indeed. Roda laughed. You regret that it isn't done. I prefer to say that I approve it when it is done without disregard of common humanity. There's my friend Orchard. With him it was suicide or freedom from his hateful wife.

Starting point is 04:22:41 Most happily he was able to make provision for her and the children, and had strength to break his bonds. If he had left them to starve, I should have understood it, but couldn't have approved it. There are men who might follow his example, but prefer to put up with a life of torture. Well, they do prefer it, you see. I may think that they are foolishly weak, but I can only recognise that they make a choice between two forms of suffering. They have tender consciences. The thought of desertion is too painful to them. And in a great number of cases, mere considerations of money and the like keep a man bound. But conscience and habit—detest a

Starting point is 04:23:19 habit, and fear of public opinion generally hold him." "'All this is very interesting,' said Rhoda with grave irony. "'By the by, under the head of detestable habit you would put love of children?' Barfoot hesitated. "'That's a motive I oughtn't to have left out. Yet I believe, for most men, it is represented by conscience. The love of children would not generally in itself be strong enough to outweigh matrimonial wretchedness. Many an intelligent and kind-hearted man has been driven from his wife notwithstanding

Starting point is 04:23:53 thought for his children. He provides for them as well as he can. But, and even for their sakes, he must save himself. The expression of Rhoda's countenance suddenly changed, and extreme mobility of facial muscles was one of the things in her that held Everard's attention. "'There's something in your way of putting it that I don't like,' she said with much frankness. But, of course, I agree with you in the facts. I am convinced that most marriage is a hateful, from every point of view. But there will be no improvement until women have revoted against marriage, from a reasonable conviction of its hatefulness.

Starting point is 04:24:30 I wish you all success. Most sincerely I do. He paused, looked about the room, and stroked his ear. Then, in a grave tone. My own ideal of marriage involves perfect freedom on both sides. Of course it could only be realized where conditions are favourable. Poverty and other wretched things force us so often to sin against our best beliefs. But there are plenty of people who might marry on these ideal terms.

Starting point is 04:24:58 Perfect freedom, sanctioned by the sense of intelligent society, would abolish most of the evils we have in mind. But women must first be civilised. You are quite right in that." The door opened, and Miss Barfoot came in. She glanced from one to the other, and without speaking gave her hand to Everard. "'How is your patient?' he asked. "'A little better, I think. It is nothing dangerous. Here's a letter from your brother Tom.

Starting point is 04:25:26 Perhaps I had better read it once. There may be news you would like to hear.' She sat down and broke the envelope. While she was reading the letter to herself, Rhoda quietly left the room. "'Yes, there is news,' said Miss Barfoot presently, and of a disagreeable kind. A few weeks ago, before writing, that is, he was thrown off a horse and had a rib fractured. Oh, how is he going on?

Starting point is 04:25:53 Getting right again, he says, and they are coming back to England. His wife's consumptive symptoms have disappeared, of course, and she is very impatient to leave Madeira. It is to be hoped she will allow poor Tom time to get his rib set. Probably that consideration doesn't weigh much with her. He says she is writing to you by the same mail." "'Poor old fellow,' said Everard with feeling.

Starting point is 04:26:17 "'Does he complain about his wife?' "'He never has done till now, but there's a sentence here that reads doubtfully. Muriel, he says, has been terribly upset about my accident. I can't persuade her that I didn't get thrown on purpose, yet I assure you I didn't.' Everard laughed. If old Tom becomes ironical, he must be hard-driven. I have no great longing to meet Mrs. Thomas. She's a silly and vulgar woman, but I told him that in plain terms before he married.

Starting point is 04:26:48 It's as much for his good nature that he remained so friendly with me. Read the letter, Everard. He did so. Hmm, very kind things about me. Good old Tom. Why don't I marry? Well, now one would have thought that his own experience— Miss Barfoot began to talk about.

Starting point is 04:27:08 something else. Before long Roda came back, and in the conversation that followed, it was mentioned that she would leave for her holiday in two days. "'I have been reading about Cheddar,' exclaimed Everard with animation. "'There's a flower grows among the rocks called the Cheddar Pink. Do you know it?' "'Oh, very well,' Roda answered. "'I'll bring you some specimens.' "'Will you? That's very kind.' "'Bring me a genuine pound or two of the cheese, Roda,' requested Miss Barfoot

Starting point is 04:27:38 gaily. "'I will. What they sell in the shops there is all sham, Mr. Barfoot, like so much else in this world. I care nothing about the cheese. That's all very well for a matter-of-fact person like Cousin Mary, but I have a strong vein of poetry. You must have noticed it.' When they shook hands, "'You will really bring me the flowers,' Everard said in a voice sensibly softened. "'I will make a note of it,' was the reassuring answer. End of Chapter X. Chapter 11 of The Odd Women This Libravox recording is in the public domain.

Starting point is 04:28:20 Recording by Elizabeth Clette. The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 11. At Nature's Bidding The sick girl whom Miss Barfoot had been to see was Monica Madden. With strange suddenness after several weeks of steady application to her work, in a cheerful spirit which at times rose to, to gaiety, Monica became dull, remiss, unhappy. Then violent headaches attacked her, and one morning

Starting point is 04:28:50 she declared herself unable to rise. Mildred Vesper went to Great Portland Street at the usual hour and informed Miss Barfoot of her companion's illness. A doctor was summoned. To him it seemed probable that the girl was suffering from consequences of overstrain at her old employment. There was nervous collapse, hysteria, general disorder of the system. Had the patient any mental disquietude? Was trouble of any kind? The doctor smiled, weighing upon her. Miss Barfoot, unable to answer these questions,

Starting point is 04:29:23 held private colloquy with Mildred, but the latter, though she pondered a good deal with corrugated brows, could furnish no information. In a day or two, Monica was removed to her sister's lodgings at Lavender Hill. Mrs. Coinsby managed to put a room at her disposal, and Virginia tended her. Lither Miss Barfoot went on the evening when Everard found her away. She and Virginia, talking together after being with the invalid for a quarter of an hour, agreed that there

Starting point is 04:29:51 was considerable improvement, but felt a like uneasiness regarding Monica's state of mind. "'Do you think?' asked the visitor, "'that she regrets the step I persuaded her to take.' "'Oh, I can't think that. She's been so delighted with her progress each time I have seen her. No, I feel sure it's only the results of what she suffered at Walworth Road. In a very short time we shall have her at work again, and brighter than ever." Miss Barfoot was not convinced. After Everard's departure that evening she talked of the matter with Rhoda.

Starting point is 04:30:26 "'I'm afraid,' said Miss Nunn, "'that Monica is rather a silly girl. She doesn't know her own mind. If this kind of thing is repeated, we had better send her back to the country.' "'To shop-work again?' It might be better. Oh, I don't like the thought of that. Roda had one of her fits of wrathful eloquence.

Starting point is 04:30:47 Now could one have a better instance than this Madden family of the crime that middle-class parents commit when they allow their girls to go without rational training? Of course I know that Monica was only a little child when they were left orphans, but her sisters had already grown up into uselessness, and their example has been harmful to her all along. Her guardians dealt with her absurdly. made her half a lady and half a shop-girl. I don't think she'll ever be good for much. And the elder ones will just go on keeping themselves alive—you can see that—they'll never

Starting point is 04:31:18 start the school that there's so much talk of—that poor, helpless, foolish Virginia—all alone there in her miserable lodging. How can we hope that any one will take her as a companion? And yet they are capitalists—eight hundred pounds between them! Think what capable women might do with eight hundred pounds." I am really afraid to urge them to meddle with the investments. "'Of course, so am I. One is afraid to do or propose anything. Virginia is starving, must be starving.

Starting point is 04:31:50 Poor creature! I can never forget how her eyes shone when I put that joint of meat before her. I do, do wish,' sighed Miss Barfoot with a pained smile,—that I knew some honest man who would be likely to fall in love with little Monica. In spite of you, my dear, I would devote myself to making the match. But there's no one. Oh, I would help, laughed Rhoda, not unkindly. She's fit for nothing else, I'm afraid.

Starting point is 04:32:19 We mustn't look for any kind of heroism in Monica. Less than half an hour after Miss Barfoot had left the house at Lavender Hill, Mildred Vesper made a call there. It was about half-past nine. The invalid, after sitting up since then— midday, had gone to bed, but could not sleep. Summined to the house-door, Virginia acquainted Miss Vespers, with the state of affairs. I think you might see her for a few minutes. I should like to, if you please, Miss Madden, replied Mildred, who had a rather uneasy look.

Starting point is 04:32:50 She went upstairs and entered the bedroom, where a lamp was burning. At the sight of her friend Monica showed much satisfaction. They kissed each other affectionately. "'Good old girl. I had made up my mind to come back to-morrow, or at all events the day after. It's so frightfully dull here. Oh, and I wanted to know if anything—any letter had come for me.' "'That's just why I came to see you to-night.' Mildred took a letter from her pocket, and half averted her face as she handed it. "'It's nothing particular,' said Monica, putting it away under her pillow. "'Thank you, dear.'

Starting point is 04:33:27 But her cheeks had become hot, And she trembled. "'Monica?' "'Well, you wouldn't care to tell me about—anything? You don't think it would make your mind easier?' For a minute Monica lay back, gazing at the wall, then she looked round quickly, with a shame-faced laugh. "'It's very silly of me not to have told you long before this.

Starting point is 04:33:51 But you're so sensible I was afraid. I'll tell you everything. Not now, but as soon as I get to Rutland Street. I shall come to-morrow." "'Do you think you can? You look dreadfully bad, still.' "'I shan't get any better here,' replied the invalid in a whisper. "'Poor Virgie does depress me so.

Starting point is 04:34:13 She doesn't understand that I can't bear to hear her repeating the kind of thing she is heard from Miss Barfoot and Miss Nunn. She tries so hard to look forward, hopefully, but I know she is miserable, and it makes me more miserable still. I oughtn't to have left you. I should have been all right in a day or two with you to help me." You don't make-believe, Millie. It's all real and natural good spirits.

Starting point is 04:34:37 It has done me good only to see your dear old face. Oh, you're a flatterer. And do you really feel better?" Very much better. I shall go to sleep very soon." The visitor took her leave. When, a few minutes after, Monica had bidden good-night to her sister, requesting that the lamp might be left, she read what Mildred had brought.

Starting point is 04:34:58 But—my dearest Monica. The missive began. Why have you not written before this? I have been dreadfully uneasy ever since receiving your last letter. Your headache soon went away, I hope. Why haven't you made another appointment? It is all I can do to keep from breaking my promise and coming to ask about you. Right at once I implore you, my dearest.

Starting point is 04:35:20 It's no use telling me that I must not use these words of affection. They come to my lips and to my pen irresistibly. You know so well that I love you with all my heart and soul. I can't address you like I did when we first corresponded. My darling! My dear, sweet, beautiful little girl! Four close pages of this, with scarce room at the end for—E.W. When she had gone through it, Monica turned her face upon the pillow, and lay so for

Starting point is 04:35:48 a long time. A clock in the house struck eleven. This roused her, and she slipped out of bed to hide the letter in her dress-pocket. not long after she was asleep. The next day, on returning from her work and opening the sitting-room door, Mildred Vesper was greeted with a merry laugh. Monica had been here since three o'clock, and had made tea in readiness for her friend's arrival. She looked very white, but her eyes gleamed with pleasure, and she moved about the room

Starting point is 04:36:16 as actively as before. Ferdgie came with me, but she wouldn't stay. She says she has a most important letter to write to Alice—about the school, of course. Oh, that's school! I do wish they could make up their minds. I've told them they may have all my money if they like." "'Have you? I should like the sensation of offering hundreds of pounds to someone. They must give a strange feeling of dignity and importance.' "'Oh, only two hundred, a wretched little sum.

Starting point is 04:36:45 "'You are a person of large ideas, as I have often told you. Where did you get them, I wonder?' "'Don't put on that face. It's the one I like least of all your many faces. It's suspicious." Mildred went to take off her things and was quickly at the tea-table. She had a somewhat graver look than usual, and chose rather to listen than talk. Not long after tea when there had been a long and unnatural silence, Mildred making pretense of absorption in a treasury and her companion standing at the window, where she threw back furtive glances, the thunder of a postman's knock downstairs caused both of them to start,

Starting point is 04:37:22 and look at each other in a conscience-stricken way. That may be for me," said Monica, stepping to the door. I'll go and look. Her conjecture was right. Another letter from Whitteson, still more alarmed and vehement than the last. She read it rapidly on the staircase, and entered the room with sheet and envelopes squeezed together in her hand. I'm going to tell you all about this, Millie.

Starting point is 04:37:47 The other nodded and assumed an attitude of sober attention. In relating her story, Monica moved hither and thither, now playing with objects on the mantelpiece, now standing in the middle of the floor, hands locked nervously behind her. Throughout her manner was that of defence. She seemed doubtful of herself, and anxious to represent the case as favourably as possible. Not for a moment had her voice the ring of courageous passion, nor the softness of tender feeling. The narrative hung together but awkwardly, and in truth gave a very indistinct notion of how she had comported herself at the various stages of the irregular her courtship. Her behaviour had been marked by far more delicacy and scruple than she succeeded

Starting point is 04:38:28 in representing. Painfully conscious of this, she exclaimed at length. "'I see your opinion of me as suffered. You don't like this story. You wonder how I could do such things.' "'Well, dear, I certainly wonder how you could begin,' Mildred made answer with her natural directness, but gently. Afterwards, of course, it was different, when you had once got to be sure that he was a gentleman. I was sure of that so soon, exclaimed Monica, her cheeks still read. You will understand it much better when you have seen him.

Starting point is 04:39:00 You wish me, too? I am going to write now and say that I will marry him. They looked long at each other. You are? Really? Yes. I made up my mind last night. But, Monica, you mustn't mind my speaking plainly.

Starting point is 04:39:20 I don't think you love him." "'Yes, I love him well enough to feel that I am doing right in marrying him!' She sat down by the table, and propped her head on her hand. "'He loves me. I can't doubt that. If you could read his letters you would see how strong his feeling is.' She shook with the cold induced by excitement. Her voice was at moments all but choked. "'But putting love aside,' went on the other very gravely.

Starting point is 04:39:49 What do you really know of Mr. Whitterson? Nothing, whatever, but what he is told to himself. Of course you will let your friends make inquiries for you. Yes, I shall tell my sisters, and no doubt they will go to Miss Nun at once. I don't want to do anything rash. But it will be all right. I mean he has told me the truth about everything. You would be sure of that if you knew him."

Starting point is 04:40:12 Mildred, with hands before her on the table, made the tips of her fingers meet. Her lips were drawn in. her eyes seemed looking for something minute on the cloth. "'You know,' she said at length. "'I suspected what was going on. I couldn't help. Of course you couldn't. Naturally I thought it was someone whose acquaintance you had made at the shop. How could I think of marrying anyone of that kind?'

Starting point is 04:40:37 "'I should have been grieved.' "'You may believe me, Millie. Mr. Whitterson is a man you will respect and like as soon as you know him. He couldn't have behaved me with more delicacy. Not a word from him spoken or written has ever pained me, except that he tells me he suffers so dreadfully, and of course I can't hear that without pain. To respect, and even to like a man, isn't at all the same as loving him. I said you would respect and like him, exclaimed Monagher, with humorous impatience.

Starting point is 04:41:09 I don't want you to love him. Mildred laughed with constraint. I never loved anyone yet, dear, and it's very unlikely I ever shall. But I think I know the signs of the feeling." Monica came behind her and leaned upon her shoulder. "'He loves me so much that he has made me think I must marry him, and I am glad of it. I'm not like you, Millie. I can't be contented with this life.

Starting point is 04:41:34 Miss Barfoot and Miss Nun are very sensible and good people, and I admire them very much, but I can't go their way. It seems to me that it would be dreadful, dreadful to live one's life alone. turn round and snap at me, I want to tell you the truth whilst you can't see me. Whenever I think of Alice and Virginia, I am frightened. I had rather, oh far rather, kill myself than live such a life at their age. You can't imagine how miserable they are really. And I have the same nature as theirs, you know.

Starting point is 04:42:06 Compared with you and Miss Haven, I'm very weak and childish." After drumming on the table for a moment with wrinkled brows, Mildred made grave response. "'You must let me tell the truth as well. I think you're going to marry with altogether wrong ideas. I think you'll do an injustice to Mr. Whittison. You will marry him for a comfortable home. That's what it amounts to. And you'll repent it bitterly some day. You'll repent.' Monika raised herself and stood apart. "'For one thing,' pursued Mildred with nervous earnestness, "'he's too old. Your habits and his won't suit. He has assured me that I shall live exactly. the kind of life I please, and that will be what he pleases. I feel his kindness to me very much, and I shall do my utmost to repay him." That's a very nice spirit, but I believe married life is no easy thing, even when the

Starting point is 04:42:59 people are well matched. I have heard the most dreadful stories of quarrelling and all sorts of unhappiness between people I thought safe from any such dangers. You may be fortunate. I only say that the chances are very much against it, marrying from such motives as you confess. Monica drew herself up. I haven't confessed any motive to be ashamed of, Millie. You say you have decided to marry now, because you are afraid of never having another chance. No, that's turning it very unkindly.

Starting point is 04:43:29 I only said that after I had told you that I did love him. And I do love him! He has made me love him! Then I have no right to say any more. I can only wish your happiness." Mildred heaved a sigh, and pretended to give her attention to Monder. After waiting irresolutely for some minutes, Monica looked for note-paper, and took it together with her inkstand into the bedroom. She was absent half an hour. On her return there was a stamped

Starting point is 04:43:56 letter in her hand. "'It is going, Millie.' "'Very well, dear. I have nothing more to say.' "'You give me up for lost. We shall see.' It was spoken light-heartedly. Again she left the room, put on her out-of-door things, and went to post the letter. By this time she would be able to be left. began to feel the results of exertion and excitement. Headache and tremulous failing of her strength obliged her to go to bed almost as soon as she returned. Mildred waited upon her with undiminished kindness. "'It's all right,' Monica murmured, as her head sank on the pillow.

Starting point is 04:44:30 "'I feel so relieved and so glad. Now I have done it.' "'Good night, dear,' replied the other with a kiss, and went back to her semblance of reading. Two days later Monica called unexpectedly at Mrs. Coinspe's. being told by that worthy woman that miss madden was at home she ran upstairs and tapped at the door virginia's voice inquired hurriedly who was there and on monica's announcing herself there followed a startled exclamation just a minute my love only a minute when the door opened monica was surprised by a disorder in her sister's appearance virginia had flushed cheeks curiously vague eyes and hair ruffled as if she had just risen from a nap she began to talk in a hurried disconnected way trying to talk in a hurried disconnected way trying to to explain that she had not been quite well, and was not yet properly dressed. "'What a strange smell!' Monica exclaimed, looking about the room.

Starting point is 04:45:23 "'It's like brandy.' "'You notice it. I have—I was obliged to get—to ask Mrs. Coinsby for—I don't want to alarm you, dear, but I felt rather faint. Indeed, I thought I should have a fainting fit. I was obliged to call Mrs. Coinsby, but don't think anything about it. It's all over. The weather is very trying." She laughed nervously. and began to pat Monica's hand. The girl was not quite satisfied and pressed many questions,

Starting point is 04:45:50 but in the end she accepted Virginia's assurances that nothing serious had happened. Then her own business occupied her. She sat down and said with a smile, "'I have brought you astonishing news. If you didn't faint before, you'll be very likely to do so now.' Her sister exhibited fresh agitation, and begged not to be kept in suspense. "'My nerves are in a shocking state to-day. It must be the weather. What can you have to tell me, Monica? I think I shan't need to go on with time-writing. Why? What are you going to do, child? The other asked sharply. Virgie, I am going to be married. The shock was a severe one. Virginia's hands fell, her eyes started, her mouth opened, she became the color of clay, even her lips losing for the

Starting point is 04:46:36 moment all their color. Married! she at length gasped. Who? Who is it?" Someone you have never heard of. His name is Mr. Edmund Whittison. He is very well off, and has a house at Herne Hill. A private gentleman?" Yes, he used to be in business, but is retired. Now I am not going to tell you much more about him until you have made his acquaintance.

Starting point is 04:47:00 Don't ask a lot of questions. You are to come with me this afternoon to his house. He lives alone, but a relative of his sister-in-law is going to be with him to meet us. Oh, but it's so sudden! I can't go to pay a call like that at a moment's notice— Impossible, darling! What does it all mean? You are going to be married, Monica?

Starting point is 04:47:20 I can't understand it, I can't realize it. Who is this gentleman? How long—no, you won't get me to tell you more than I have done till you have seen him. But what have you told me? I couldn't grasp it. I am quite confused. Mr.—what was the name? It took half an hour to familiarize Virginia with the simple fact, when she was

Starting point is 04:47:39 She was convinced of its truth, a paroxysm of delight appeared in her. She laughed, uttered cries of joy, even clapped her hands. "'Monika to be married! A private gentleman with a large fortune! My darling, how shall I ever believe it? Yet I felt so sure that the day would come! What will Alice say, and rode a nun? Have you—have you ventured to tell her?

Starting point is 04:48:03 No, that I haven't. I wanted you to do that. You shall go and see them to-morrow as it Sunday. Oh, the delight! Alice won't be able to contain herself. We always said the day would come. You won't have any more anxieties, Virgie. You can take the school or not as you like. Mr. Whitterson. Oh, my dear, interposed Virginia with sudden dignity. We shall certainly open the school. We have made up our minds. That is to be our life's work. It is far, far more than a mere means of subsistence. But perhaps we shall not need to hurry. Everything can be matured at our level.

Starting point is 04:48:39 If you would only just tell me, darling, when were you first introduced?" Monica laughed gaily and refused to explain. It was time for Virginia to make herself ready, and here arose a new perturbation. What had she suitable for where, under such circumstances? Monica had decked herself a little, and helped the other to make the best of her narrow resources. At four o'clock they set out. of chapter 11. Chapter 12 of the odd women. This Librovoc's recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clutt. The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 12. Weddings

Starting point is 04:49:26 When they reached the house at Hearn Hill, the sisters were both in a state of nervous tremor. Monica had only the vaguest idea of the kind of person Mrs. Luke Whittowson would prove to be, and Virginia seemed to herself to be walking in a dream. "'Have you been here often?' whispered the latter as soon as they came in view of the place. Its aspect delighted her, but the conflict of her emotions was so disturbing that she had to pause and seek the support of her sister's arm. "'I've never been inside,' Monica answered indistinctly. "'Come, we shall be unpunctual.'

Starting point is 04:50:07 "'I do wish you. would tell me, dear. I can't talk, Virgie. Try and keep quiet, and behave as if it were all quite natural." This was altogether beyond Virginia's power. It happened most luckily, though greatly to Whittison's annoyance, that the sister-in-law, Mrs. Luke Whittison, arrived nearly half an hour later than the time she had appointed. Led by the servant into a comfortable drawing-room, the visitors were received by the master of the house alone. With a grim smile, the result of his embarrassment, with profuse apologies and a courtesy altogether excessive, Whittison did his best to put them at their ease, of course with small result.

Starting point is 04:50:52 The sisters, side by side on a satie at one side of the room, and the host seated far away from them, they talked with scarcely any understanding of what was said on either side, the weather and the vastness of London serving as topics. Until, of a sudden, the door was thrown open, and there appeared a person of such imposing presence that Virginia gave a start, and Monica gazed in painful fascination. Mrs. Luke was a tall and portly woman in the prime of life, with rather a high color. Her features were handsome, but without much refinement. Their expression a condescending good-humor. Her morning garb, if morning-garb, it could be called, represented an extreme of the prevailing

Starting point is 04:51:36 fashion. Its glint and Russell inspired awe in the female observer. A moment ago the drawing-room had seemed empty. Mrs. Luke, in her sole person, filled and illumined it. Whittison addressed this resplendent personage by her Christian name, his familiarity exciting in Monica in a rational surprise. He presented the sisters to her, and Mrs. Luke, bowing grandly at a distance, drew from her bosom a gold-rimmed pince-nay. through which she scrutinized Monica. The smile which followed might have been interpreted in several senses. Whitterson, alone capable of remarking it, answered with a look of severe dignity. Mrs. Luke had no thought of apologizing for the lateness of her arrival, and it was evident

Starting point is 04:52:26 that she did not intend to stay long. Her purpose seemed to be to make the occasion as informal as possible. "'Do you, by chance, know the Hodgson Bulls?' she asked of her relative, interrupting him in the nervous commonplaces with which he was endeavouring to smooth the way to a general conversation.

Starting point is 04:52:46 She had the accent of cultivation, but spoke rather imperiously. "'I never heard of them,' was the cold reply. "'No. They live somewhere about here. I have to make a call on them. I suppose my coachman will find the place."

Starting point is 04:53:04 There was an awkward silence. Widowson was about to say something to Monica, when Mrs. Luke, who had again closely observed the girl through the glasses, interposed in a gentle tone. "'Do you like this neighbourhood, Miss Madden?' Monica gave the expected answer, her voice sounding very weak and timid by comparison. And so, for some ten minutes,

Starting point is 04:53:30 an appearance of dialogue was sustained. Mrs. Luke, though still condescending, evinced a desire to be agreeable. She smiled and nodded in reply to the girl's remarks, and occasionally addressed Virginia with careful civility, conveying the impression, perhaps involuntarily, that she commiserated the shy and shabbily-dressed person. Tea was brought in, and after pretending to take a cup, she rose for departure. "'Perhaps you will come and see me some day, Miss Miss Miss Miss Miss Miss. Madden? fell from her with unanticipated graciousness, as she stepped forward to the girl,

Starting point is 04:54:05 and offered her hand. Edmund must bring you, at some quiet time, when we can talk. Very glad to have met you, very glad indeed. And the personage was gone. They heard her carriage roll away from beneath the window. All three drew a breath of relief, and Whittowson, suddenly quite another man, took a place near to Virginia, with whom in a little bit of a little bit of a little bit of a window, with whom in a while a few minutes he was conversing in the friendliest way. Virginia, experiencing a like relief, also became herself. She found courage to ask needful questions, which in every case were satisfactorily met. Of Mrs. Luke there was no word, but when they had taken their leave—the

Starting point is 04:54:47 visit lasted altogether some two hours—monica and her sister discussed that great lady with the utmost freedom. They agreed that she was personally detestable. "'But very rich, my dear,' said Virginia in a murmuring voice. "'You can see that. I have met such people before. They have a manner. Oh, of course Mr. Whitterson will take you to call upon her.' "'When nobody else is likely to be there, that's what she meant,' remarked Monica coldly. "'Never mind, my love. You don't wish for grand society. I am very glad to tell you that Edmund impresses me very favorably. He is reserved, but that is no fault. Oh, we must write to Alice at once, her surprise, her delight!" When on the next day Monica met her betrothed in Regent's

Starting point is 04:55:41 Park, she still lived with Mildred Vesper, but no longer went to Great Portland Street. Their talk was naturally of Mrs. Luke. Whittison speedily led to the topic. "'I had told you,' he said with careful accent, "'that I saw that I saw that I see very little of her. I can't say that I like her, but she is a very difficult person to understand, and I fancy she often gives offence when she doesn't at all mean it. Still, I hope you were not—displeased." Monica avoided a direct answer. "'Shall you take me to see her?' were her words.

Starting point is 04:56:19 "'If you will go, dear—and I have no doubt she will be present at our wedding. Unfortunately, she's my only relative, or the only one I know anything about. After our marriage, I don't think we shall see much of her. No, I dare say not, was Monica's remark, and thereupon they turned to pleasanter themes. That morning, Whittison had received from his sister-in-law a scribbled postcard, asking him to call upon Mrs. Luke early the day that followed. Of course this meant that the lady was desirous of further talk concerning Miss Madden, unwillingly but as a matter of duty he kept the appointment it was at eleven in the morning and when admitted to the flat and victoria street which was his relatives abode he had to wait a quarter of an hour for the lady's appearance

Starting point is 04:57:09 luxurious fashion as might have been expected distinguished mrs luke's drawing-room costly and beautiful things superabounded perfume soothed the air only since her bereavement had mrs whittison been able to indulge this taste for modern exuberance in domestic adornment. The deceased Luke was a plain man of business, who clung to the fashions which had been familiar to him and his youth. His second wife found a suburban house already furnished, and her influence with him could not prevail to banish the horrors amid which he chose to live. Chairs in maroon rep, Brussels carpets of red roses on a green ground, horse-hair sofas of the most uncomfortable shape ever designed, and to Macassars everywhere, chimney ornaments of cut glass trembling in sympathy with the kindred chandeliers. She belonged to an obscure branch of a house that culminated in an obscure baronetcy.

Starting point is 04:58:05 Peniless and ambitious, she had to thank her imposing physique for rescue at a perilous age. And though despising Mr. Luke Whittison for his plebeian tastes, she shrewdly retained the goodwill of a husband who seemed no candidate for length of years. The money-maker died much sooner than she could reasonably have hoped, and she could reasonably have and left her an income of four thousand pounds. Thereupon began for Mrs. Luke a life of feverish aspiration. The baronetcy to which she was akin had inspired her, even from childhood, with an aristocratic ideal.

Starting point is 04:58:37 A handsome widow of only eight and thirty, she resolved that her wealth should pave the way for her to a titled alliance. Her acquaintance lay among city people, but with the opportunities of freedom it was soon extended to the sphere of what is known as smart society. Her flat, in Victoria Street, attracted a heterogeneous cluster of pleasure-seekers and fortune-hunters, among them one or two vagrant members of the younger aristocracy. She lived at the utmost pace compatible with technical virtue. When, as shortly happened, it became evident that her income was not large enough for her serious purpose,

Starting point is 04:59:12 she took counsel with an old friend great in finance, and thenceforth the excitement of the gambler gave a new zest to her turbid existence. Like most of her female associates, she had free recourse to the bottle. But for such stimulus the life of a smart woman would be physically impossible. And Mrs. Luke enjoyed life, enjoyed it vastly. The goal of her ambition, if all went well in the city, was quite within reasonable hope. She forecasted the day when a vulgar prefix would no longer attach to her name, and when the journals of society would reflect her rising effulgence. Whittison was growing impatient when at last his relative at length appeared. She threw herself into a deep chair, crossed her legs, and gazed at him mockingly.

Starting point is 04:59:59 "'Well, it isn't quite so bad as I've fared, Edmund.' "'What do you mean?' "'Oh, she's a decent enough, little girl, I can see. But you're a silly fellow for all that. You couldn't have deceived me, you know. If there'd been anything—you understand. I should have spotted it at once." "'I don't relish this kind of talk,' observed Whitterson acidly. "'In plain English, you supposed I was going to marry someone about whom I couldn't confess the truth?'

Starting point is 05:00:31 "'Of course I did. Now come. Tell me how you got to know her.' The man moved uneasily, but in the end related the whole story. Mrs. Luke kept nodding, with an amused air. "'Yes, yes, she managed it. capitally, clever little witch, fetching eyes she has. If you sent for me to make insulting remarks—'Bosh! I'll come to the wedding gaily.

Starting point is 05:01:00 you're a silly fellow. Now why didn't you come and ask me to find you a wife? Why I know two or three girls of really good family who would have jumped, simply jumped at a man with your money. Pretty girls, too. But you were always so horribly unpractical. Don't you know, my dear boy, that there are heaps of ladies, real ladies, waiting the first decent man who offers them five or six hundred a year? Why haven't you used the opportunities that you knew I could put in your your way." Widowson rose from his seat and stood stiffly. "'I see you don't understand me in the least.

Starting point is 05:01:39 I am going to marry, because for the first time in my life I have met the woman whom I can respect and love.' "'That's very nice and proper. But why shouldn't you respect and love a girl who belongs to good society?' "'Miss Madden is a lady,' he replied indignantly. "'No, yes, to be sure. hummed the other, letting her head roll back. "'Well, bring her here some day when we can lunch quietly together.

Starting point is 05:02:08 I see it's no use. You're not a sharp man, Edmund.' "'Do you seriously tell me?' asked Whitterson, with grave curiosity. "'That there are ladies in good society who would have married me just because I have a few hundreds a year. My dear boy, I would get together a round dozen in two or three days, girls who would make good faithful wives and mere gratitude to the man who saved them from—hors—excuse me if I say that I don't believe it." Mrs. Luke laughed merrily, and the conversation went on ill this strain for another ten minutes. At the end Mrs. Luke made herself very agreeable, praised Monica for her sweet face and gentle manners,

Starting point is 05:02:50 and so dismissed the solemn man with a renewed promise to countenance the marriage by her gracious presence. When Rhoda nun returned from her holiday, it wanted but a week to Monica's wedding, so speedily had everything been determined and arranged. Miss Barfoot, having learnt from Virginia all that was to be known concerning Mr. Whittison, felt able to hope for the best. A grave husband, of mature years, and with means more than sufficient, seemed to the eye of experience no unsuitable match for a girl such as Monica. This view of the situation caused Rhoda to smile with contemptuous tolerance.

Starting point is 05:03:26 and yet she remarked i have heard you speak severely of such marriages it isn't the ideal wedlock replied miss barfoot but so much in life is compromise after all she may regard him more affectionately than we imagine no doubt she has weighed advantages if the prospects you offered her had proved more to her taste she would have dismissed this elderly admirer his fate has been decided through the last few weeks it's probable that the invitation to your wednesday evenings gave her a hope of meeting young men. I see no harm if it did," said Miss Barfoot, smiling. But Miss Vesper would very soon undeceive her on that point. I hardly thought of her as a girl likely to make chance friendships with men in highways and by-ways. No more did I, and that makes all the more content with what has come about.

Starting point is 05:04:18 She ran a terrible risk, poor child. You see, Rhoda, nature is too strong for us." Roda threw her head back. And the delight of her sister! It is really pathetic. The mere fact that Monica is to be married blinds the poor woman to every possibility of misfortune. In the course of the same conversation, Roda remarked thoughtfully,

Starting point is 05:04:41 "'It strikes me that Mr. Whitterson must be of a confiding nature. I don't think men in general, at all events those with money, care to propose marriage to girls they encounter by the way.' "'I suppose he saw that the case was acceptable. How was he to see that? You are severe. Her shop training accounts for much. The elder sisters could never have found a husband in this way.

Starting point is 05:05:06 The revelation must have shocked them at first. Rhoda dismissed the subject lightly, and henceforth showed only the faintest interest in Monica's concerns. Monica meanwhile rejoiced in her liberation from the work and philosophic 70s of Great Portland Street. She saw Whittison somewhere or other every day, and heard him discourse on the life that was before them, herself for the most part keeping silence. Together they carled upon Mrs. Luke, and had luncheon with her.

Starting point is 05:05:36 Monica was not displeased with her reception, and began secretly to hope that more than a glimpse of that gorgeous world might some day be vouchsafed to her. Apart from her future husband, Monica was in a sportive mood, with occasional fits of exhilaration which seemed rather unnatural. She had declared to Mildred her intention of inviting Miss Nun to the wedding, and her mind was evidently set on carrying out this joke, as she regarded it. When the desire was intimated by letter, Rota replied with a civil refusal. She would be altogether out of place at such a ceremony, but hoped that Monica would accept

Starting point is 05:06:10 her heartiest good wishes. Virginia was then dispatched to Queen's Road, and appealed so movingly that the prophetess at length yielded. On hearing this, Monica danced with delight, and her companion in her companion in Rutland Street could not help sharing her merriment. The ceremony was performed at a church at Hearn Hill. By an odd arrangement, like everything else in the story of this pair, a result of social and personal embarrassments, Monica's belongings, including her apparel for the day, were previously dispatched to the bridegroom's house. Whither, in company with Virginia,

Starting point is 05:06:44 the bride went early in the morning. It was one of the quietest of weddings, but all ordinary formalities were complied with, Whitteson having no independent views on the subject. Present were Virginia, to give away the bride, Miss Vesper, who looked decidedly odd in a pretty dress given her by Monica, wrote a nun, who appeared to advantage in a costume of quite unexpected appropriateness, Mrs. Whitterson, an imposing figure, evidently feeling that she had gotten a strange society, and, as friend of the bridegroom, won Mr. Newdick, a musty and nervous City Clark. Depression was manifest on every countenance, not accepting Wittorsons. The man had such a stern, gloomy look, and held himself with so much awkwardness, that he might have been

Starting point is 05:07:30 imagined to stand here on compulsion. For an hour before going to the church, Monica cried and seemed unutterably doleful. She had not slept for two nights. Her face was ghastly. Virginia's gladness gave way just before the company assembled, and she, too, shed many tears. a breakfast, more dismal fooling than even this species of fooling is wont to be. Mr. Newdick, trembling and bloodless, proposed Monica's health. Whittison, stern and dark as ever, gloomily responded, and then that was happily over. By one o'clock the gathering began to disperse. Monika drew Rodanana sighed. "'It was very kind of you to come,' she whispered with half a sob.

Starting point is 05:08:13 "'It all seems very silly, and I'm sure you have wished yourself away a hundred times. I am really seriously grateful to you." Rhoda put a hand on each side of the girl's face, and kissed her, but without saying a word, and thereupon left the house. Mildred Vesper, after changing her dress in the room used by Monica, as she had done on arriving, went off by train to her duties in Great Portland Street. Virginia alone remained to see the married couple start for their honeymoon. They were going into Cornwall, and on the return journey would manage to see Miss Madden at

Starting point is 05:08:46 her Somerset retreat. For the present, Virginia was to live on at Mrs. Coinsby's, but not in the old way. Henceforth she would have proper attendance, and modify her vegetarian diet, at the express bidding of the doctor, as she explained to her landlady. Though that very evening Everard Barfoot made a call upon his friends in Chelsea, the first since Rhoda's return from Cheddar, he heard nothing of the event that marked the day. But Miss Nunn appeared to him unlike herself. She was absent, had little to say, and looked.

Starting point is 05:09:17 what he had never yet known her, oppressed by low spirits. For some reason or other Miss Barfoot left the room. "'You are thinking with regret of your old home,' Everard remarked, taking a seat nearer to Miss Nunn. "'No, why should you fancy that?' "'Only because you seem rather sad.' "'One is sometimes.' "'I like to see you with that look. May I remind you that you promised me some flowers from Cheddar?' "'Oh, so I did,' exclaimed. claimed the other in a tone of natural recollection.

Starting point is 05:09:49 "'I have brought them, scientifically pressed between blotting-paper. I'll fetch them.' When she returned it was together with Miss Barfoot, and the conversation became livelier. A day or two after this Everard left town, and was away for three weeks, part of the time in Ireland. "'I left London for a while,' he wrote from Calarney to his cousin. "'Partly because I was afraid I had begun to bore you and miss Nunn. Don't you regret giving me permission to call upon you? The fact is I can't live without intelligent female society. Talking with women as I talk with you to is one of my chief enjoyments. I hope you won't get tired of my visits. In fact, they are all but a necessity to me, as I have discovered since coming away. But it was fair that you should have a rest.

Starting point is 05:10:37 Don't be afraid, Miss Barfoot replied to this part of his letter. We are not at all weary of your conversation. The truth is, is, I like it much better than in the old days. You seem to me to have a healthier mind, and I am quite sure that the Society of Intelligent Women—we affect no foolish self-deprecation, Miss Nun and I, is a good thing for you. Come back to us as soon as you like. I shall welcome you." It happened that his return to England was almost simultaneous with the arrival from Madeira of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Barfoot. Everard went at once to see his brother, who for the present was staying at Torquay. Ill health dictated his choice of residence. Thomas was still suffering

Starting point is 05:11:21 from the results of his accident. His wife had left him at a hotel, and was visiting relatives in different parts of England. The brothers exhibited much affectionate feeling after their long separation. They spent a week together, and planned for another meeting when Mrs. Thomas should have returned to her husband. An engagement called Everard back to town. He was to be present at the wedding of his friend Micklethwaite, now actually on the point of taking place. The mathematician had found a suitable house, very small and of very low rental, out at South Tottenham, and thither was transferred the furniture which had been in his bride's possession since the death of her parents. Micklethwaite bought only a few new things. By discreet inquiry Barfoot had discovered that,

Starting point is 05:12:05 Fanny, though musically inclined, would not possess a piano, her old instrument being quite worn out and not worth the cost of conveyance. Thus it came to pass that, a day or two before the wedding, Micklethwaite was astonished by the arrival of an instrument of the cottage species, mysteriously addressed to a person not yet in existence, Mrs. Micklethwaite. "'You scoundrel!' he cried, when on the next day Barfoot presented himself at the house. "'This is your doing. What the deuce do you mean? A man who complains of poverty?' "'Well, it's the greatest kindness I ever received, that's all. Fanny will be devoted to you.'

Starting point is 05:12:43 With music in the house, our blind sister will lead quite a different life. Confound it, I want to begin crying. Why, man, I'm not at all accustomed to receive presents even as a proxy. I haven't had one since I was a schoolboy. That's an audacious statement. When you told me that Miss Wheatley never allowed your birthday to pass without sending something. Oh, Fanny! But I have never thought of Fanny is a separate person.

Starting point is 05:13:08 Upon my word, now I think of it I never have. Fanny and I have been one for ages. that evening the sisters arrived from their country home micklethwaite gave up the house to them and went to a lodging it was with no little curiosity that on the appointed morning barfoot repaired to south tottenham he had seen a photograph of miss weatley but it dated from seventeen years ago standing in her presence he was moved with compassion and with another feeling more rarely excited in him by a woman's face that of reverential tenderness impossible to recognize in this countenance the features known to him from the portrait. At three and twenty she had possessed a sweet, simple calmliness, on which any man's eye would have rested with pleasure. At forty she was wrinkled, hollow-cheeked, sallow, indelible weariness stamped upon her brow and lips. She looked much older than Mary Barfoot, though they were just of an age. And all this

Starting point is 05:14:06 for want of a little money. The life of a pure, gentle, tender-hearted woman worn away in hopeless longing and in hard struggle for daily bread. As she took his hand and thanked him with an exquisite modesty for the present she had received, Everard felt a lump rise in his throat. He was ashamed to notice that the years had dealt so unkindly with her. Fixing his look upon her eyes, he gladdened at the gladness which shone in them, at the soft light which they could still shed forth. Micklethwaite was probably unconscious of the poor woman's faded appearance. He had seen her from time to time, and always with the love which idealizes. In his own pathetic phrase,

Starting point is 05:14:46 she was simply a part of himself. He no more thought of criticizing her features than of standing before the glass to mark and comment upon his own. It was enough to glance at him as he took his place beside her, the proudest and happiest of men. A miracle had been wrought for him. Kind fate, in giving her to his arms, had blotted out those long years of sorrow, and to-day Fanny was the betrothed of his youth, beautiful in his sight as when first he looked upon her. Her sister, younger by five years, had more regular lineaments, but she too was worn with suffering, and her sightless eyes made it more distressing to contemplate her. She spoke cheerfully, however, and laughed with joy in Fanny's happiness. Barfoot pressed both her hands with the friendliest

Starting point is 05:15:32 warmth. One vehicle conveyed them all to the church, and in half an hour the lady to whom the piano was addressed had come into being. The simplest of transformations—no bridal gown, no veil, no wreath, only the gold ring for symbol of union. And it might have happened nigh a score of years ago—nigh a score of years lost from the span of human life—all for want of a little money. "'I will say good-bye to you here,' muttered Everard to his friend at the

Starting point is 05:16:02 the church door. The married man gripped him by the arm. "'You will do nothing of the kind. Fanny, he wants to be off at once. You won't go until you have heard my wife play something on that blessed instrument.' So all entered a cab again and drove back to the house. A servant who had come with Fanny from the country, a girl of fifteen, opened the door to them, smiling and curtseying. And all sat together in happy talk, the blind woman gayest among them. She wished to have the clergyman described to her and the appearance of the church. Then Mrs. Micklethwaite placed herself at the piano, and played simple, old-fashioned music, neither well nor badly, but to the infinite delight of two of her

Starting point is 05:16:43 hearers. "'Mr. Barfoot,' said the sister at length, "'I have known your name for a long time, but I had little thought to meet you on such a day as this, and to owe you such endless thanks, so long as I have music I forget that I can't see.' "'Barfoot is the finest fellow on earth,' exclaimed Micklethwaite. At least he would be if he understood trilinear coordinates." "'Are you strong in mathematics, Mrs. McElthwaite?' asked Aferrard. "'Aye! Oh, dear, no. I never got much past the rule of three. But Tom has forgiven me for that long ago. I don't despair of getting you into plain trigonometry, Fanny. We will gossip about signs and

Starting point is 05:17:23 cosines before we die.' It was said half seriously, and Everard could not but burst into laughter. He sat down with them to their plain midday meal, and early in the afternoon took his leave. He had no inclination to go home, if the empty flat could be dignified with such a name. After reading the papers at his club, he walked aimlessly about the streets, until it was time to return to the same place for dinner. Then he sat with a cigar, dreaming, and at half-past eight went to the Royal Oak Station, and journeyed to Chelsea. End of Chapter 12

Starting point is 05:17:59 Chapter 13 of the Odd Women This Librivox recording is in the public domain Recording by Elizabeth Clette The Odd Women by George Gissing Chapter 13 Discord of Leaders A disappointment awaited him Miss Barfoot was not well enough to see anyone

Starting point is 05:18:27 Had she been suffering long, he inquired No, it was only this evening she had not dined and was gone to her room. Miss Nunn could not receive him. He went home and wrote to his cousin. The next morning he came upon a passage in the newspaper which seemed to suggest a cause for Miss Barfoot's indisposition. It was the report of an inquest. A girl named Bella Royston had poisoned herself. She was living alone, without occupation, and received visits only from one lady. This lady, her name Miss Barfoot, had been supplying her with money, and had just found her a situation in a house of business, but the girl appeared to have gone

Starting point is 05:19:10 through troubles which had so disturbed her mind that she could not make the effort required of her. She left a few lines addressed to her benefactress, just saying that she chose death, rather than the struggle to recover her position. It was Saturday. He decided to call in the afternoon, and see whether Mary had recovered. Again a disappointment. Miss Barfoot was better, and had been away since breakfast. Miss Nunn was also absent. Everard sauntered about the neighborhood,

Starting point is 05:19:42 and presently found himself in the gardens of Chelsea Hospital. It was a warm afternoon, and so still that he heard the fall of yellow leaves as he walked hither and thither along the alleys. His failure to obtain an interview with Miss Nunn annoyed him, But for her presence in the house he would not have got into this habit of going there. As far as ever from harboring any serious thoughts concerning Rhoda, he felt himself impelled along the way which he had jokingly indicated in talk with Micklethwaite.

Starting point is 05:20:11 He was tempted to make love to her as an interesting pastime, to observe how so strong-minded a woman would conduct herself under such circumstances. Had she or not a vein of sentiment in her character? Was it impossible to move her as other women are moved? meditating thus he looked up and saw the object of his thoughts she was seated a few yards away and seemingly had not yet become aware of him her eyes were on the ground and troubled reverie appeared in her countenance I have just called at the house, Miss Nunn. How is my cousin to-day?' She had looked up only a moment before he spoke, and seemed vexed at being thus discovered. "'I believe Miss Barfoot is quite well,' she answered coldly, as they shook hands.

Starting point is 05:20:58 But yesterday she was not so. A headache, or something of the kind?' He was astonished. Roda spoke with a cold indifference. She had risen, and showed her wish to move from the spot. She had to attend an inquest yesterday. Perhaps it rather upset her? Yes, I think it did. Unable to adapt himself at once to this singular mood of Rhoda's, but resolved not to let her go before he had tried to learn the cause of it, he walked along by her side. In this part of the gardens there were only a few nursemaids and children.

Starting point is 05:21:34 It would have been a capital place and time for improving his intimacy with the remarkable woman, but possibly she was determined to be rid of him. A contest between his will and hers would be an amusement decidedly to his taste. You also have been disturbed by it, Miss Nunn?' "'By the inquest,' she returned, with barely veiled scorn. "'Indeed I have not?' "'Did you know that, poor girl?' "'Some time ago.'

Starting point is 05:22:01 "'Then it is only natural that her miserable fate should sadden you.' He spoke as if with respectful sympathy, ignoring what she had said. It had no effect whatever upon me," Rhoda answered, glancing at him with surprise and displeasure. "'Forgive me if I say that I find it difficult to believe that. Perhaps you—' She interrupted him. "'I don't easily forgive anyone who charges me with falsehood, Mr. Barfoot.' "'Oh, you take it too seriously. I beg your pardon a thousand times. I was going

Starting point is 05:22:34 to say that perhaps you won't allow yourself to acknowledge any feeling of compassion in such a case. I don't acknowledge what I don't feel. I will bid you good afternoon." He smiled at her with all the softness and persuasiveness of which he was capable. She had offered her hand with cold dignity, and instead of taking it, merely for good-bye, he retained it. You must, you shall forgive me. I shall be too miserable if you dismiss me in this way. I see that I was altogether wrong. You know all the particulars of the case, and I have read only a brief newspaper account.

Starting point is 05:23:09 I am sure the girl didn't deserve your pity." She was trying to draw her hand away. Everard felt the strength of her muscles, and the sensation was somehow so pleasant that he could not at once release her. You do pardon me, Miss Nunn. Please don't be foolish. I will thank you to let my hand go." Was it possible?

Starting point is 05:23:30 Her cheek had coloured ever so slightly, but with indignation no doubt, for her eyes flashed sternly at him. Very unwillingly, Everard had no choice but to obey the command. "'Will you have the kindness to tell me?' he said more gravely, whether my cousin was suffering only from that cause. "'I can't say,' she added after a pause. I haven't spoken with Miss Barfoot for two or three days.' He looked at her with genuine astonishment.

Starting point is 05:24:00 "'You haven't seen each other?' "'Miss Barfoot is angry with me. I think we shall be obliged to part.' "'To part?' What can possibly have happened? Miss Barfoot, angry with you? If I must satisfy your curiosity, Mr. Barfoot, I had better tell you at once that the subject of our difference is the girl you mentioned. Not very long ago she tried to persuade your cousin to receive her again, to give her lessons at the place in Great Portland Street. As before

Starting point is 05:24:28 she disgraced herself. Miss Barfoot, with too ready good-nature, was willing to do this, but I resisted. It seemed to me that it would be very weak and wrongly. thing to do. At the time she ended by agreeing with me. Now that the girl has killed herself, she throws the blame upon my interference. We had a painful conversation, and I don't think we can continue to live together." Barfoot listened with gratification. It was much to have compelled Rhoda to explain herself, and on such a subject. Nor even to work together, he asked. It is doubtful.

Starting point is 05:25:05 still moved forward, but very slowly and without impatience. You will somehow get over this difficulty, I am sure. Such friends as you and Mary don't quarrel like ordinary, unreasonable women. Won't you let me be of use?" "'How?' asked Rhoda with surprise. "'I shall make my cousin see that she is wrong.' "'How do you know that she is wrong?' "'Because I am convinced that you must be right. I respect Mary's judgment, but I respect yours still more."

Starting point is 05:25:37 Roda raised her head and smiled. "'That compliment,' she said, "'pleases me less than the one you have uttered without intending it.' "'You must explain.' "'You said that by making Miss Barfoot see that she was wrong, you could alter her mind towards me. The world's opinion would hardly support you in that, even in the case of men.' Everard laughed.

Starting point is 05:26:00 "'Now this is better. Now we are talking in the old way. Surely you know that the world's opinion has no validity for me." She kept silence. But after all, is Mary wrong? I'm not afraid to ask the question, now that your face has cleared a little. How angry you were with me! But surely I didn't deserve it.

Starting point is 05:26:22 You would have been much more forbearing if you had known what delight I felt when I saw you sitting over there. It is nearly a month since we met, and I couldn't keep away any longer." Roda swept the distance with indifferent eyes. "'Merry was fond of this girl,' he inquired, watching her. "'Yes, she was.' "'Then her distress and even anger are natural enough. We won't discuss the girl's history.

Starting point is 05:26:48 Probably I know all that I need to. But whatever her misdoing, you certainly didn't wish to drive her to suicide.' Rhoda deigned no reply. "'All the same,' he continued in his gentlest tones. It turns out that you have practically done so. If Mary had taken the girl back, that despair would most likely never have come upon her. Isn't it natural that Mary should repent of having been guided by you, and perhaps say rather severe things? Natural, no doubt, but it is just as natural for me to resent blame where I have done

Starting point is 05:27:20 nothing blameworthy. You are absolutely sure that this is the case. I thought you expressed a conviction that I was in the right. There was no smile, but ever on. believed he detected its possibility on the closed lips. I have got into the way of always thinking so, in questions of this kind, but perhaps you tend to err on the side of severity, perhaps you make too little allowance for human weakness. Human weakness is a plea that has been much abused, and generally in an interested spirit. This was something like a personal rebuke. Whether she so meant it, Barfoot could not determine.

Starting point is 05:28:02 He hoped she did, for the more personal their talk became, the better he would be pleased. "'I, for one,' he said, "'very seldom urge that plea, whether in my own defence or another's. But it answers to a spirit we can't altogether dispense with. Don't you feel ever so little regret that your severe logic prevailed?' Not the slightest regret. Everard thought this answer magnificent. He had anticipated some evasion. However inappropriately, he was constrained to smile. How I admire your consistency!

Starting point is 05:28:38 We others are poor, halting creatures in comparison. Mr. Barfoot, said Rhoda suddenly, I have had enough of this. If your approval is sincere, I don't ask for it. If you are practising your powers of irony, I had rather you chose some other person. I will go my way, if you please.' She just bent her head and left him.

Starting point is 05:29:02 Enough for the present. Having raised his hat and turned on his heels, Barfoot strolled away in a mood of peculiar satisfaction. He laughed to himself. She was certainly a fine creature. Yes, physically as well. Her out-of-door appearance, on the whole, pleased him. She could dress very plainly without disguising the advantages of figure she possessed.

Starting point is 05:29:24 He pictured her rambling about the hills, and longed to be her companion on such an expedition. would be no consulting with feebleness, as when one sets forth to walk with the everyday woman. What daring topics might come up in the course of a twenty-mile stretch across country? No grundyism in road a nun, no simpering, no mincing of phrases! Why a man might do worse than secure her for his comrade through the whole journey of life! Suppose he pushed his joke to the very point of asking her to marry him! Undoubtedly she would refuse! But how enjoyable to watch the proud of her to marry him!

Starting point is 05:30:00 vigor of her freedom of asserting itself. Yet would not an offer of marriage be too commonplace, rather propose to her to share his life in a free union, without sanction of forms which neither for her nor him were sanction at all. Was it too bold a thought? Not if he really meant it. Uttered in sincerely such words would be insult. She would see through his pretence of earnestness, and then farewell to her for ever. But if his intellectual sympathy became tinged with passion, and did he discern no possibility of that? An odd thing were he to fall in love with Rhoda nun. Hitherto his ideal had been a widely different type of woman.

Starting point is 05:30:43 He demanded rare beauty of face, and the charm of a refined voluptuousness. To be sure it was but an ideal, no woman that approached it had ever come within his sphere. The dream exercised less power over him than a few years ago, perhaps because his youth was behind him. Rhoda might well represent the desire of mature man, strengthened by modern culture, and with his senses fairly subordinate to reason. Heaven forbid that he should ever tie himself to the tame, domestic female! And just as little could he seek for a mate among the women of society, the creatures all surface with empty pates and vitiated blood. No marriage for him

Starting point is 05:31:23 in the common understanding of the word. He wanted neither offspring nor a home. If she thought of such things at all, probably desired a union which would permit her to remain an intellectual being. The kitchen, the cradle, and the work-basket had no power over her imagination. As likely as not, however, she was perfectly content with single life, even regarded it as essential to her purposes. In her face he read chastity. Her eye avoided no scrutiny.

Starting point is 05:31:53 Her palm was cold. One does not break the heart of such a woman. break is a very old-fashioned disorder, and associated with poverty of brain. If Rhoda were what he thought her, she enjoyed this opportunity of studying a modern male, and cared not how far he proceeded in his own investigations, sure that at any moment she could bid him fall back. The amusement was only just beginning. And if for him it became earnest, why what did he seek but strong experiences?" Roda in the meantime had gone home. She shut herself in her bedroom, and she shut herself in her bedroom,

Starting point is 05:32:29 and remained there until the bell rang for dinner. Miss Barfoot entered the dining-room just before her. They sat down in silence, and through the meal exchanged but a few sentences, relative to a topic of the hour which interested neither of them. The elder woman had a very unhappy countenance. She looked worn out. Her eyes never lifted themselves from the table. Dinner over, Miss Barfoot went to the drawing-room alone.

Starting point is 05:32:55 She had sat there about half an hour, brooding, unoccupied, when Rhoda came in and stood before her. I've been thinking it over. It isn't right for me to remain here. Such an arrangement was only possible whilst we were on terms of perfect understanding. You must do what you think best, Rhoda. The other replied gravely,

Starting point is 05:33:16 but with no accent of displeasure. Yes, I had better take a lodging somewhere. What I wish to know is, whether you can still employ me with any satisfaction. I don't employ you. That is not the word to describe your relations with me. If we must use business language, you are simply my partner." Only your kindness put me into that position.

Starting point is 05:33:40 When you no longer regard me as a friend, I am only in your employment. I haven't ceased to regard you as a friend. The estrangement between us is entirely of your making." Seeing that Rhoda would not sit down, Miss Barfoot rose and stood by the fireplace. I can't bear reproaches," said the former, least of all when they are irrational and undeserved. If I reproached you, it was in a tone which should never have given you offence. One would think that I had rated you like a disobedient servant." If that had been possible," answered Rhoda with a faint smile, I should never have been here.

Starting point is 05:34:19 You said that you bitterly repented having given way to me on a certain occasion. That was unreasonable. giving way you declared yourself convinced, and the reproach I certainly didn't deserve, for I had behaved conscientiously. Isn't it allowed me to disapprove of what your conscience dictates? Not when you have taken the same view and acted upon it. I don't lay claim to many virtues, and I haven't that of meekness. I could never endure anger.

Starting point is 05:34:47 My nature resents it. I did wrong to speak angrily, but indeed I hardly knew what I was saying. I had suffered a terrible shock. I loved that poor girl. I loved her all the more for what I had seen of her since she came to implore my help. Your utter coldness! It seemed to me inhuman. I shrank from you.

Starting point is 05:35:10 If your face had shown ever so little compassion. I felt no compassion. No. You have hardened your heart with theory. Guard yourself, Rhoda. To work for women. one must keep one's womanhood. You are becoming.

Starting point is 05:35:30 You are wandering as far from the true way. How much farther than Bella did! I can't answer you. When we argued about our differences in a friendly spirit, all was permissible. Now if I spoke by thought it would be more harshness and cause of embitterment. I fear all is at an end between us. I should perpetually remind you of this sorrow.

Starting point is 05:35:52 There was a silence of some length. Rhoda turned away and stood in reflection. "'Let us do nothing hastily,' said Miss Barfoot. "'We have more to think of than our own feelings.' "'I have said that I am quite willing to go on with my work, but it must be on a different footing. The relation between us can no longer be that of equals. I am content to follow your directions.

Starting point is 05:36:16 But your dislike of me will make this impossible.' "'Dislike! You misunderstand me wretchedly!' I think rather it is you who dislike me, as a weak woman with no command of her emotions." Again they ceased from speech. Presently Miss Barfoot stepped forward. Roda, I shall be away all to-morrow. I may not return to London until Monday morning. Will you think quietly over at all?

Starting point is 05:36:46 Believe me, I am not angry with you. And as for disliking you, what nonsense are we talking? I can't regret that I let you see how painfully your behaviour impressed me. That hardness is not natural to you. You have encouraged yourself in it, and you are warping a very noble character. I wish only to be honest. Where you felt compassion, I felt indignation! Yes, we have gone through all that. The indignation was a forced, exaggerated sentiment. You can't see it in that light, perhaps. But try to imagine—we have been a forced, exaggerated sentiment.

Starting point is 05:37:21 try to imagine for a moment that Bella had been your sister." That is confusing the point at issue," Rhoda exclaimed irritably. "'Have I ever denied the force of such feelings? My grief would have blinded me to all larger considerations, of course. But she was happily not my sister, and I remained free to speak the simple truth about her case. It isn't personal feeling that directs a great movement and civilization. If you were right I also was right.

Starting point is 05:37:49 You should have recognised the inevitable discord of our opinions at that moment." It didn't seem to me inevitable. I should have despised myself, if I could have affected sympathy." "'Affected? Yes. Or have really felt it! That would have meant that I did not know myself. I should never have again dared to speak on any grave subject.'

Starting point is 05:38:12 Miss Barfoot smiled sadly. "'How young you are! Oh, there is far more than ten years between our ages, Rhoda. In spirit you are a young girl, and I am an old woman. No, no, we will not quarrel. Your companionship is far too precious to me, and I dare to think that mine is not without value for you. Wait till my grief has had its course.

Starting point is 05:38:39 Then I shall be more reasonable, and do you more justice." Roda turned towards the door, lingered, but without looking bad. And so left the room. Miss Barfoot was absent as she had announced, returning only in time for her duties in Great Portland Street on Monday morning. She and Rhoda then shook hands, but without a word of personal reference. They went through the day's work as usual. This was the day of the month on which Miss Barfoot would deliver her four o'clock address.

Starting point is 05:39:10 The subject had been announced a week ago. Woman as an invader. An hour earlier than usual work was put aside, and seen were rapidly arranged for the small audience. It numbered only thirteen, the girls already on the premises and a few who came specially. All were aware of the tragedy in which Miss Barfoot had recently been concerned. Her air of sadness, so great a contrast to that with which she was wont to address them, they naturally attributed to this cause. As always, she began in the simplest conversational tone. Not long since she had received an

Starting point is 05:39:45 anonymous letter, written by some clerk out of employment, abusing her roundly for her encouragement of the female competition in the Clarkly world. The taste of this epistle was as bad as its grammar, but they should hear it. She read it all through. Now, whoever the writer might be, it seemed pretty clear that he was not the kind of person with whom one could profitably argue—no use in replying to him, even had he given the opportunity. For all that, his uncivil attack had a meaning—and there were plenty of people ready to urge his argument in more respectable terms.

Starting point is 05:40:19 They will tell you that, in entering the commercial world, you not only unsex yourselves, but do a grievous wrong to the numberless men struggling hard for bare sustenance. You reduce salaries. You press into an already overcrowded field. You injure even your own sex by making it impossible for men to marry, who, if they earned enough, would be supporting a wife. Today," continued Miss Barfoot, it was not her purpose to debate the economic aspects of the question.

Starting point is 05:40:51 She would consider it from another point of view, repeating perhaps much that she had already said to them on other occasions, but doing so because these thoughts had just now very strong possession of her mind. This abusive correspondent, who declared that he was supplanted by a young woman who did his work for smaller payment, doubtless had a grievance. But in the miserable disorder of our social state, one could—one could be supplanted by a young woman who did his work for smaller payment—doubtless had a grievance. But in the miserable disorder of our social state—one grievance had to be weighed against another, and Miss Barfoot held that there was much more

Starting point is 05:41:19 to be urged on behalf of women who invaded what had been exclusively the men's sphere, than on behalf of the men, who began to complain of this invasion. They point to half a dozen occupations, which are deemed strictly suitable for women. Why don't we confine ourselves to this ground? Why don't I encourage girls to become governesses, hospital nurses, and so on? think I ought to reply that, already there are too many applicants for such places. It would be true, but I don't care to make use of the argument, which at once involves us in a debate with the out-crowded clerk.

Starting point is 05:41:56 No. To put the truth in a few words, I am not chiefly anxious that you should earn money, but that women in general shall become rational and responsible human beings. Follow me carefully. A governess, a nurse, may be the most admirable of women. I will dissuade no one from following those careers who is distinctly fitted for them. But these are only a few out of the vast number of girls who must, if they are not to be despicable persons, somehow find serious work. Because I myself have had an education in clerkship, and have most capacity

Starting point is 05:42:34 for such employment, I look about for girls of like mind, and do my best to prepare them for work in offices. And, here I must become emphatic once more, I am glad to have entered on this course. I am glad that I can show girls the way to a career which my opponents call unwomanly. Now see why. Womanly and womanish are two very different words. But the latter, as the world uses it, has become practically synonymous with the former. A womanly occupation means practically an that a man disdains, and here is the root of the matter. I repeat that I am not, first of all, anxious to keep you supplied with daily bread. I am a troublesome, aggressive, revolutionary person.

Starting point is 05:43:23 I want to do away with that common confusion of the words womanly and womanish, and I see very clearly that this can only be affected by an armed movement, an invasion of women of the spheres which men have always forbidden us to enter. I am strenuously opposed to that view of us. set forth in such charming language by Mr. Ruskin, for it tells on the side of those men who think and speak of us in a way the reverse of charming. Were we living in an ideal world, I think women would not go to sit all day in offices, but the fact is, that we live in a world as far from ideal as can be conceived.

Starting point is 05:44:01 We live in a time of warfare, of revolt. If woman is no longer to be womanish, but a human being of powers and responsibilities, she must become militant, defiant. She must push her claims to the extremity. An excellent governess, a perfect hospital nurse, do work which is invaluable. But for our cause of emancipation, they are no good, nay, they are harmful. Men point to them and say, imitate these, keep to your proper world. Our proper world is the world of intelligence, of honest effort, of moral strength. The old types of womanly perfection are no longer helpful to us. Like the church service, which to all but one person in a thousand has become meaningless

Starting point is 05:44:51 gabble by dint of repetition, these types have lost to their effect. They are no longer educational. We have to ask ourselves, what course of training will wake women up, make them conscious of their souls, startle them into healthy activity. It must be something new, something free from the reproach of womanliness. I don't care whether we crowd out the men or not. I don't care what results, if only women are made strong and self-reliant and nobly independent. The world must look to its concerns.

Starting point is 05:45:28 Most likely we shall have a revolution in the social order greater than any that yet seems possible. Let it come, and let us help its coming. When I think of the contemptible wretchedness of women enslaved by custom, by their weakness, by their desires, I am ready to cry. Let the world perish in tumult rather than things go on in this way." For a moment her voice failed. There were tears in her eyes. The hearers, most of them, understood what made her so passionate. They exchanged grave looks. Our abusive correspondent shall do as best he can. He suffers for the folly of

Starting point is 05:46:08 men in all ages. We can't help it. It is very far from our wish to cause hardship to anyone, but we ourselves are escaping from a hardship that has become intolerable. We are educating ourselves. There must be a new type of woman, active in every sphere of life, a new worker out in the world, a new ruler of the home. Of the old ideal virtues we can retain many, but we have to add to them those which have been thought appropriate only in men. Let a woman be gentle, but at the same time let her be strong. Let her be pure of heart, but nonetheless wise and instructed. Because we have to set an example to the sleepy of our sex, we must carry on an active warfare, must be invaders. Whether woman is the equal of man I neither

Starting point is 05:47:00 know nor care. We are not equal in size, in weight, in muscle, and for all I can say, we may have less power of brain. That has nothing to do with it. Enough for us to know that our natural growth has been stunted. The mass of women have always been paltry creatures, and their paltriness has proved a curse to men. So, if you like to put it in this way, we are working for the advantage of men as well as for our own. Let the responsibility for disorder rest on those who have made us despise our old selves. At any cost, At any cost! We will free ourselves from the heritage of weakness and contempt." The assembly was longer than usual in dispersing. When all were gone, Miss Barfoot listened for a footstep in the other room. As she could detect no sound, she went to see if Rhoda was there or not. Yes, Rhoda was sitting in a thoughtful attitude.

Starting point is 05:48:00 She looked up, smiled, and came a few paces forward. It was very good. I thought it would please you." Miss Barfoot drew nearer and added, "'It was addressed to you. It seemed to me that you had forgotten how I really thought about these things.' "'I have been ill-tempered,' Roda replied. "'Obstinacy is one of my faults.'

Starting point is 05:48:24 "'It is.' Their eyes met. "'I believe,' continued Roda, "'that I ought to ask your pardon. all wrong, I behaved in an unmanly way." "'Yes, I think you did,' Roda smiled, bending her head to the rebuke. "'And there's the last of it,' added Miss Barfoot. Let us kiss and be friends." End of Chapter 13.

Starting point is 05:48:57 Chapter 14 of The Odd Women. This Librevox recording is in the public domain. by Elizabeth Clette The Odd Women by George Gissing Chapter 14 Motives Meeting When Barfoot made his next evening call Rhoda did not appear

Starting point is 05:49:19 He sat for some time in pleasant talk with his cousin No reference whatever being made to Miss Nunn Then at length, beginning to fear that he would not see her He inquired after her health Miss Nunn was very well, answered the hostess smiling. "'Not at home this evening?' Busy with some kind of study, I think.

Starting point is 05:49:42 Plainly the difference between these women had come to a happy end, as Barfoot foresaw that it would. He thought it better to make no mention of his meeting with Rhoda in the gardens. "'That was a very unpleasant affair that I saw your name connected with last week,' he said presently. "'It made me very miserable, ill indeed for a day or two.' That was why you couldn't see me?" Yes.

Starting point is 05:50:08 But in your reply to my note you made no mention of the circumstances." Miss Barfoot kept silence, frowning slightly, she looked at the fire near which they were both sitting, for the weather had become very cold. "'No doubt,' pursued Everard, glancing at her. "'You refrained out of delicacy. On my account, I mean.' "'Need we talk of it?' For a moment, please. You were very friendly with me nowadays, but I suppose your estimate of my character remains very much the same as years ago.

Starting point is 05:50:43 What is the use of such questions? I ask for a distinct purpose. You can't regard me with any respect. 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. Have you spoken of me to Miss Nun? 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 coming here.

Starting point is 05:51:30 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.' I never told her the story. I made known the general grounds of my disciples. satisfaction with you. That was all."

Starting point is 05:52:02 "'Come, that's something. I'm glad you didn't amuse her with that unedifying bit of fiction.' "'Fiction?' "'Yes, fiction,' said Everard bluntly. "'I am not going into details, the things over and done with, and I chose my course at the time, but it's as well to let you know that my behaviour was grossly misrepresented. In using me to point a moral, you were grievously astray. I shall say no more. If you can believe me, do. If you can't, dismiss the matter from your mind. There followed a silence of some moments.

Starting point is 05:52:39 Then, with a perfectly calm manner, Miss Barfoot began to speak of a new subject. Everard followed her lead. He did not stay much longer, and on leaving, asked to be remembered to Miss Nunn. A week later he again found his cousin alone. He now felt sure that Miss Nunn was keeping out of his way. Her parting from him in the gardens had been decidedly abrupt, and possibly it signified more serious offence than at the time he attributed to her. It was so difficult to be sure of anything in regard to Miss Nunn.

Starting point is 05:53:11 If another woman had acted thus, he would have judged it coquetry. But perhaps Rhoda was quite incapable of anything of that kind. Perhaps she took herself so very seriously that the mere suspicion of banter in his talk had moved her to grave resentment. Or, again, she might be happy. half ashamed to meet him after confessing her disagreement with Miss Barfoot. On recovery from ill-temper—unmistakable ill-temper it was—she had seen her behaviour in an embarrassing light. Between these various conjectures he wavered whilst talking with Mary—but he did

Starting point is 05:53:45 not so much as mention Miss Nunn's name. Some ten days went by, and he paid a call at the hour sanctioned by society five in the afternoon—it being Saturday. One of his reasons for coming at this time was the hope that he might meet other callers, for he felt curious to see what sort of people visited the house. And this wish was gratified. On entering the drawing-room, whither he was led by the servant straightway, after the manner of the world, he found not only his cousin and her friend, but two strangers, ladies. A glance informed him that both of these were young and good-looking, one being a type that

Starting point is 05:54:24 particularly pleased him, dark, pale, with very bright eyes. Miss Barfoot received him as any hostess would have done. She was her cheerful self once more, and in a moment introduced him to the lady with whom she had been talking—the dark one—by name Mrs. Whittison. Rode a nun, sitting apart with the second lady, gave him her hand, but at once resumed her conversation. With Mrs. Whitterson he was soon chatting in his easy and graceful way, Miss Barfoot putting in a word now and then. He saw that she had not long been married, a pleasant diffidence

Starting point is 05:54:58 and the maidenly glance of her bright eyes indicated this. She was dressed very prettily, and seemed aware of it. "'We went to hear the new opera at the Savoy last night,' she said to Miss Barfoot, with a smile of remembered enjoyment. "'Did you? Miss Nunn and I were there?' Everard gazed at his cousin with humorous incredulity. "'Is it possible?' he exclaimed. "'You were at the Savoy.'

Starting point is 05:55:25 "'Where is the impossibility? Why shouldn't Miss Nun and I go to you?' to the theatre. I appeal to Mrs. Whitterson. She also was astonished. Yes, indeed I was, Miss Barfoot! exclaimed the younger lady with a merry little laugh. I hesitated before speaking of such a frivolous entertainment. Lowering her voice and casting a smile in Rhoda's direction, Miss Barfoot replied, I have to make a concession occasionally on Miss Nun's account. It would be unkind never to allow her a little recreation.

Starting point is 05:55:57 The two at a distance were talking earnestly with grave countenances. In a few moments they rose, and the visitor came towards Miss Barfoot to take her leave. Thereupon Everard crossed to Miss Nunn." "'Is there anything very good in the new Gilbert and Sullivan Opera?' he asked. "'Many good things. You really haven't been yet?' "'No, I'm ashamed to say. Do go this evening, if you can get a seat.

Starting point is 05:56:23 Which part of the theatre do you prefer?' His eye rested on her, but he could detect no irony. I am a poor man, you know, I have to be content with the cheap places. Which do you like best? The Savoy operasks at the gayety." A few more such questions and answers of laboured commonplace or strained flippancy, and Everard, after searching his companion's face, broke off with a laugh. "'There now,' he said, "'we have talked in the approved five o'clock way.

Starting point is 05:56:55 the dialogue I had in a drawing-room yesterday. It goes on day after day, year after year, through the whole of people's lives. "'You are unfriendly terms with such people?' "'I am on friendly terms with people of every kind,' he added in an undertone. "'I hope I may include you, Miss Nunn.' But to this she paid no attention. She was looking at Monica and Miss Barfoot, who had just risen from their seats. They approached, and presently Barfoot found himself alone with the familiar your pair."

Starting point is 05:57:25 "'Another cup of tea, Everard?' asked his cousin. "'Thank you. Who was the young lady you didn't introduce me to?' "'Miss Haven, one of our pupils.' "'Does she think of going into business?' "'She has just got a place in the publishing department of a weekly paper.' "'But really, from the few words of her talk that fell upon my ear, I should have thought to a highly educated girl.'

Starting point is 05:57:50 "'So she is,' replied Miss Barfoot. What is your objection?" "'Why doesn't she aim at some better position?' Miss Barfoot and Rhoda exchanged smiles. But nothing could be better for her. Some day she hopes to start a paper of her own, and to learn all the details of such businesses just what she wants. Oh, you were still very conventional, Everard.

Starting point is 05:58:15 You meant she ought to take up something graceful and pretty, something ladylike. No, no, it's all right, I thoroughly approve. and when Miss Haven starts her paper, Miss Nunn will write for it." "'I hope so,' assented his cousin. "'You make me feel that I am in touch with the great movements of our time. It's delightful to know you. But come now, isn't there any way in which I could help?' Mary laughed.

Starting point is 05:58:41 "'None, whatever, I'm afraid.' Well, they also serve who only stand and wait. If Everard had pleased himself, he would have visited the house in Queen's Road every other day. As this might not be, he spent a good deal of his time in other society, not caring to read much, or otherwise occupy his solitude. Starting with one or two acquaintances in London, people of means and position, he easily extended his social sphere. Had he cared to marry, he might, notwithstanding his poverty, have wooed with a fair chance in a certain wealthy family, where two daughters, the sole children, plain but well-instructed girls, waited for the men of

Starting point is 05:59:23 brains who could appreciate them. So rare in society, these men of brains, and alas, so frequently deserted by their wisdom when it comes to choosing a wife. It being his principle to reflect on every possibility, Barfoot, of course, asked himself whether it would not be reasonable to approach one or other of these young women, the Miss Brissendon's. He needed a larger income. He wanted to travel in a more satisfactory way than during his late absence. Agnes Brissendon struck him as a very calm and sensible girl, not at all likely to marry anyone but the man who would be a suitable companion for her, and probably disposed to look on marriage as a permanent friendship, which must not be endangered by feminine follies. She had no beauty, but mental

Starting point is 06:00:06 powers above the average, superior certainly to her sisters. It was worth thinking about, but in the meantime he wanted to see much more of Rhoda Nun. Rhoda he was beginning to class with women who are attractive both physically and mentally. Strange how her face had altered to his perception since the first meeting. He smiled now when he beheld it, smiled as a man does when his senses are pleasantly affected. He was getting to know it so well, to be prepared for its constant changes, to watch for certain movements of brows or lips when he had said certain things. That forcible holding of her hand had marked a stage in progressive appreciation. Since then he felt a desire to repeat the experiment.

Starting point is 06:00:51 Or if thy mistress some rich anger shows, imprison her soft hand and let her rave." The lines occurred to his memory, and he understood them better than heretofore. It would delight him to enrage Rhoda, and then to detain her by strength, to overcome her senses, to watch her long lashes droop over the eloquent eyes. But this was something very like being in love, and he by no means—he would—he by no means—he would no means wished to be seriously in love with Miss Nunn." It was another three weeks before he had an opportunity of private talk with her. Trying a Sunday afternoon, about four, he found Rhoda alone in the drawing-room.

Starting point is 06:01:32 Miss Barfoot was out of town. Rhoda's greeting had a frank friendliness which she had not bestowed upon him for a long time. Not indeed since they met on her return from Cheddar. She looked very well, readily laughed, and seemed altogether in a coming-on disposition. Barfoot noticed that the piano was open. "'Do you play?' he inquired. "'Strange that I should still have to ask the question.' "'Oh, only a hymn on Sunday,' she answered offhand.

Starting point is 06:02:01 "'A hymn?' "'Why not? I like some of the old tunes very much. They remind me of the golden age.' "'In your own life, you mean?' She nodded. "'You have once or twice spoken of that time, as if you were not quite happy in the present.' Of course I am not quite happy. What woman is? I mean, what woman above the level of a petted

Starting point is 06:02:24 pussy-cat?" Everard was leaning towards her on the head of the couch where he sat. He gazed into her face fixedly. I wish it were in my power to remove some of your discontents. I would, more gladly than I can tell you." "'You were bound in good nature, Mr. Barfoot,' she replied laughing. "'But unfortunately you can't change the world.' not the world at large but might i not change your views of it in some respects indeed i don't see how you could i think i had rather have my own view than any you might wish to substitute for it

Starting point is 06:03:01 in this humour she seemed more than ever a challenge to his manhood she was armed at all points she feared nothing that he might say no flush of apprehension no nervous tremor no weak self-consciousness yet he saw her as a woman and desirable. My views are not ignoble, he murmured. I hope not, but they are the views of a man. Man and woman ought to see life with much the same eyes. Ought they? Perhaps so. I am not sure.

Starting point is 06:03:35 But they never will in our time. Individuals may, the man and woman who have thrown away prejudice and superstition. You and I, for instance. Oh, those words of such different meanings! In your judgment I should seem full of idle prejudice." She liked this conversation. He read pleasure in her face, saw in her eyes a glint of merry defiance, and his pulses throbbed the quicker for it.

Starting point is 06:04:02 You have a prejudice against me, for instance. Pray did you go to the Savoy?" inquired Rhoda absently. I have no intention of talking about the Savoy, Miss Nunn. It is teacup time, but as yet we have the room to ourselves. Roda went and rang the bell. The teacups shall come at once. He laughed slightly, and looked at her from beneath drooping lids.

Starting point is 06:04:26 Rhoda went on with talk of trifles, until the tea was brought and she had given a cup. Having emptied it at two drafts, he resumed his former leaning position. Well, you were saying that you had a prejudice against me. Of course my cousin Mary is accountable for that. Mary has used me rather ill. Before you ever saw me I represented to your mind something very disagreeable indeed. That was too bad of my cousin. Rhoda, sipping her tea, had a cold, uninterested expression.

Starting point is 06:04:57 "'I didn't know of this,' he proceeded, when we met that day in the gardens, and when I made you so angry. I wasn't disposed to jest about what had happened. But neither was I. You quite misunderstood me. Will you tell me how that unpleasantness came to an end?' Oh, yes, I admitted that I had been ill-mannered and obstinate. How delightful! obstinate!

Starting point is 06:05:20 I have a great deal of that in my character. All the active part of my life was one long fit of obstinacy. As a lad I determined on a certain career, and I stuck to it in spite of conscious unfitness, in spite of a great deal of suffering out of sheer obstinacy. I wonder whether Mary ever told you that. She mentioned something of the kind once. You could hardly believe it, I dare say. I am a far more reasonable being now. I have changed in so many respects that I hardly know my old self when I look back on it—above all in my thoughts

Starting point is 06:05:54 about women. If I had married during my twenties I should have chosen, as the average man does, some simpleton, with unpleasant results. If I marry now it will be a woman of character and brains. Marry in the legal sense I never shall. My companion must be as independent into forms as I am myself." Roda looked into her teacup for a second or two, then said with a smile, "'You also are a reformer?' "'In that direction.' He had difficulty in suppressing signs of nervousness. The bold declaration had come without

Starting point is 06:06:30 forethought, and Roda's calm acceptance of it delighted him. "'Questions of marriage,' she went on to say, "'don't interest me much. But this particular reform doesn't seem very practical. It is trying to bring about an ideal state of things, whilst we are yet struggling with elementary obstacles." "'I don't advocate this liberty for all mankind, only for those who are worthy of it.' "'And what?' she laughed a little. "'Are the sure signs of worthiness. I think it would be very useful to know them.' Everard kept a grave face. "'True. But a free union presupposes a quality of position. No honour

Starting point is 06:07:11 man would propose it, for instance, to a woman incapable of understanding all it involved, or incapable of resuming her separate life, if that became desirable. I admit all the difficulties. One must consider those of feeling, as well as the material. If my wife should declare that she must be released, I might suffer grievously. But being a man of some intelligence, I should admit that the suffering couldn't be helped. The brutality of enforced marriage doesn't seem to me an alternative worth considering. It wouldn't seem so to any woman of the kind, I mean." Would she have the courage to urge one grave difficulty that he left aside?

Starting point is 06:07:47 No. He fancied her about to speak, but she ended by offering him another cup of tea. After all, that is not your ideal, he said. "'I haven't to do with the subject at all,' Roda answered, with perhaps a trace of impatience. My work and thought are for the women who do not marry—the odd women I call them. They alone interest me. One mustn't undertake too much." "'And you resolutely class yourself with them?' "'Of course I do.' "'And therefore you have certain views of life in which I should like to change. You are

Starting point is 06:08:24 doing good work, but I had rather see any other woman in the world devote her life to it. I am selfish enough to wish.' The door opened, and the service of her own. said, Mr. and Mrs. Whittison. With perfect self-command, Miss Nunn rose and stepped forward. Barfoot, rising more slowly, looked with curiosity at the husband of the pretty black-browed woman whom he had already met. Whittison surprised and amused him. How had this stiff stern fellow with the grizzled beard one such a wife? Not that Mrs. Whittison seemed a remarkable person, but certainly it was an ill-assorted union. She came.

Starting point is 06:09:03 and shook hands. As he spoke a few natural words, Everard chanced to notice that the husband's eye was upon him, and with what a look! If ever a man declared in his countenance the worst species of jealous temper, Mr. Whittison did so. His fixed smile became Sardonic. Presently Barfoot and he were introduced. They had nothing to say to each other, but Everard maintained a brief conversation just

Starting point is 06:09:28 to observe the man. Turning at length he began to talk with Mrs. Whittison, and because he became to talk with Mrs. he was conscious of the jealous eye, assumed in especial sprightliness, an air of familiar pleasantry, to which the lady responded, but with a nervous hesitation. The arrival of these people was an intense annoyance to him. Another quarter of an hour and things would have come to an exciting pass between Rhoda and himself. He would have heard how she received a declaration of love. Rota's self-possession notwithstanding, he believed that he was not without power over her. She liked to talk with him, enjoyed the

Starting point is 06:10:03 freedom he allowed himself in choice of subject. Perhaps no man before had ever shown an appreciation of her qualities as a woman. But she would not yield, was in no real danger from his love-making. Nay, the danger was to his own peace. He felt that resistance would intensify the ardour of his wooing, and possibly end by making him a victim of genuine passion. Well, let her enjoy that triumph, if she were capable of winning it. He had made up his mind to outstay the Wittesons, who clearly would not make a long call. But the fates were against him. Another visitor arrived, a lady named Cosgrove, who settled herself as if for at least an hour. Worse than that, he heard her say to Rhoda,

Starting point is 06:10:48 "'Oh, then do come and dine with us, do I beg?' "'I will with pleasure,' was Miss Nunn's reply. "'Can you wait and take me with you?' "'Euseless to stay longer. As soon as the Wittesons had departed, he went up to Rhoda and silently offered her his hand. She scarcely looked at him, and did not in the least return his pressure. Rhoda dined at Mrs. Cosgroves, and was home again at eleven o'clock. When the house was locked up, and the servants had gone to bed, she sat in the library, turning over a book that she had brought from her friend's house. It was a volume of essays, one of which dealt with the relations between the sexes in a very modern spirit, treating the subject as a perfectly open one, and arriving at

Starting point is 06:11:31 unorthodox conclusions. Mrs. Cosgrove had spoken of this dissertation with lively interest. Rhoda perused it very carefully, pausing now and then to reflect. In this reading of her mind, Barfoot came near the truth. No man had ever made love to her. No man, to her knowledge, had ever been tempted to do so. In certain moods she derived satisfaction from this thought, using it to strengthen her life's purpose. Having passed her thirtieth year, she might take it as a settled thing that she would never be sought in marriage, and so could shut the doors on every instinct tending to trouble her intellectual decisions. But these instincts sometimes refuse to be thus treated. As Miss Barfoot told her, she was very young for her years,

Starting point is 06:12:18 young in physique, young in emotion. As a girl she had dreamt passionately, and the fires of her nature, though hidden beneath aggregations of moral and mental attainment, were not yet smothered. An hour of lassitude filled her with despondency, nonetheless real because she was ashamed of it. If only she had once been loved, like other women, if she had listened to an offer of devotion and rejected it, her heart would be more securely at peace. So she thought. Secretly she deemed it a hard thing never to have known that common triumph for sex. And, moreover, it took away from the merit of her position as a leader and encourager of women living independently. There might be some who said, or thought, that she made a virtue of necessity.

Starting point is 06:13:05 Everard Barfoot's advances surprised her not a little. Judging him as a man wholly without principle, she supposed at first that this was merely his way with all women, and resented it as impertinence. But even then she did not dislike the show of Ammitch. What her mind regarded with disdain, her heart was all but willing to feed upon, after its long hunger. Barfoot interested her, and not the less because of his evil reputation. Here was one of the men for whom women, doubtless more than one, had sacrificed themselves.

Starting point is 06:13:36 She could not but regard him with sexual curiosity. And her interest grew. Her curiosity was more haunting, as their acquaintance became a sort of friendship. She found that her moral disapprobation wavered or was altogether forgotten. Perhaps it was to compensate for this that she went the length of outraging misdainment Barfoot's feelings on the death of Bella Royston. Certainly she thought with much frequency of Barfoot, and looked forward to his coming. Never had she wished so much to see him again as after their encounter in Chelsea Gardens, and on that account she forced herself to hold aloof

Starting point is 06:14:12 when he came. It was not love, nor the beginning of love. She judged it something less possible to avow. The man's presence affected her with a perturbation which she had no difficulty in concealing at the time, though afterwards it distressed and shamed her. She took refuge in the undeniable fact that the quality of his mind made an impression upon her, that his talk was sympathetic. Miss Barfoot submitted to this influence. She confessed that her cousin's talk had always had a charm for her. Could it be that this man reciprocated—and more than reciprocated, her complex feeling—taday

Starting point is 06:14:51 only accident had prevented him from making an avowal of love—and—and, more than reciprocated, her complex feeling—taday, only accident had prevented him from making an avowel of love— Unless she strangely mistook him. All the evening she had dwelt on this thought, it grew more and more astonishing. Was he worse than she had imagined? Under cover of independent thought, of serious moral theories, did he conceal mere profligacy and heartlessness? It was an extraordinary thing to have to ask such questions in relation to herself. It made her feel as if she had to learn herself anew to form a fresh conception of her personality.

Starting point is 06:15:22 She the object of a man's passion." And the thought was exultant. Even thus late then the satisfaction of vanity had been granted her. Nay, not of vanity alone. He must be sincere. What motive could he possibly have for playing a part? Might it not be true that he was a changed man in certain respects, and that a genuine emotion at length had control of him?

Starting point is 06:15:49 If so she had only to wait for his next speech with her in private. it, she could not misjudge a lover's pleading. The interest would only be that of comedy. She did not love Everard Barfoot, and saw no likelihood of ever doing so—on the whole a subject for thankfulness. Nor could he seriously anticipate an assent to his proposal for a free union. In declaring that legal marriage was out of the question for him he had removed his love-making to the region of mere ideal sentiment.

Starting point is 06:16:19 But—if he loved her, these theories would sooner or later be swept aside, he would plead with her to become his legal wife. To that point she desired to bring him. Offer what he might, she would not accept it, but the secret chagrin that was upon her would be removed. Love would no longer be the privilege of other women. To reject a lover in so many respects desirable, whom so many women might envy her, would fortify her self-esteem, and enable her to go forward in the chosen path with firmer tread. It was one of her to go forward in the chosen path with firmer tread. It was one o'clock. The fire had died out, and she began to shiver with cold. But a trembling of joy at the same time went through her limbs. Again she had the

Starting point is 06:17:02 sense of exultation, of triumph. She would not dismiss him peremptorily. He should prove the quality of his love, if love it were. Coming so late, the experience must yield her all it had to yield of delight and contentment. End of Chapter 14. Chapter 15 of the Odd Women This Librivox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette The Odd Women by George Gissing.

Starting point is 06:17:38 Chapter 15 The Joys of Home Monica and her husband, on leaving the house and Queen's Road, walked slowly in the eastward direction. Though night had fallen, the air was not unpleasant. They had no object before them, and for five minutes they occupied themselves with their thoughts. Then Whitterson stopped. "'Shall we go home again?' he asked, just glancing at Monica, then letting his eyes stray

Starting point is 06:18:08 vaguely in the gloom. "'I should like to see Millie, but I'm afraid I can hardly take you there to call with me.' "'Why not?' "'It's a very poor little sitting-room, you know, and she might have some friend. "'Isn't there anywhere you could go and meet me afterwards?' Frowning Whiddison looked at his watch. "'Nearly six o'clock. There isn't much time.' "'Edmond, suppose you go home, and let me come back by myself.

Starting point is 06:18:37 You wouldn't mind for once. I should like so much to have a talk with Millie. If I got back about nine or half-past, I could have a little supper, and that's all I should want.' He answered abruptly. Oh, but I can't have you going about alone at night." "'Why not?' answered Monica, with a just perceptible note of irritation. "'Are you afraid I shall be robbed or murdered?' "'Nonsense. But you mustn't be alone.'

Starting point is 06:19:08 "'Didn't I always used to be alone?' He made an angry gesture. "'I have begged you not to speak of that. Why do you say which you know is disagreeable to me? You used to do all sorts of things that you ought never to have been obliged to do, and it's very painful to remember it." Monica, seeing that people were approaching, walked on, and neither spoke until they had nearly reached the end of the road.

Starting point is 06:19:33 "'I think we had better go home,' Whittison at length remarked. "'If you wish it—but I really don't see why I shouldn't call on, Millie, now that we are here. Why didn't you speak of it before we left home? You ought to be more methodical, Monica. Each morning I always plan how my day is to be spent, and it would be much better if you would do the same. Then you wouldn't be so restless and uncertain.

Starting point is 06:20:02 If I go to Rutland Street, said Monica, without heeding this admonition, couldn't you leave me there for an hour? What in the world am I to do? I should have thought you might walk about. It's a pity you don't know more people, Edmund. And it would make things so much pleasanter for you?" In the end he consented to see her safely as far as Rutland Street, occupy himself for an hour, and come back for her.

Starting point is 06:20:30 They went by cab, which was dismissed in Hampstead Road. Whittison did not turn away until he had ocular proof of his wife's admittance to the house where Miss Vesper lived, and even then he walked no farther than the neighbouring streets, about every ten minutes to watch the house from a short distance, as though he feared Monica might have some project of escape. His look was very bilious, trudging mechanically hither and thither where fewest people were to be met, he kept his eyes on the ground, and clumped to a dismal rhythm with the end of his walking-stick. In the three or four months since his marriage he seemed to have grown older. He no longer held himself so upright. At the very moment agreed

Starting point is 06:21:14 upon, he was waiting close by the house. Five minutes passed. Twice he had looked at his watch, and he grew excessively impatient, stamping as if it were necessary to keep himself warm. Another five minutes, and he uttered a nervous ejaculation. He had all but made up his mind to go and knock at the door when Monica came forth. "'You haven't been waiting here long, I hope,' she said cheerfully. "'Ten minutes. But it doesn't matter.' I'm very sorry. We were talking on. Yes, but one must always be punctual. I wish I could impress that upon you. Life without punctuality is quite impossible." I'm very sorry, Edmund. I will be more careful. Please don't lecture me, dear. How shall we go home?

Starting point is 06:22:03 We had better take a cab to Victoria, no knowing how long we may have to wait for a train when we get there. Now don't be so grumpy. Where have you been all the time? Oh, walking about. What else was I to do? On the drive they held no conversation. At Victoria they were delayed about half an hour before a train started for Hearn Hill. Monica sat in a waiting-room, and her husband trudged about the platform, still clumping rhythmically with his stick. Their Sunday custom was to dine at one o'clock, and at six to have tea. Whittison hated the slightest interference with domestic routine, and he had reluctantly indulged Monica's desire to go to Chelsea this afternoon.

Starting point is 06:22:49 Hunger was now added to his causes of discontent. "'Let us have something to eat at once,' he said on entering the house. "'This disorder really won't do. We must manage better somehow.' Without replying, Monica rang the dining-room bell and gave orders. Little change had been made in the interior of the house since its master's marriage, The dressing-room adjoining the principal bedchamber was adapted to Monica's use, and a few ornaments were added to the drawing-room. Unlike his deceased brother, Whittison had the elements of artistic taste. In furnishing his abode, he took counsel with approved decorators, and at modest cost had made himself a home which presented no original features, but gave no offense to a cultivated eye.

Starting point is 06:23:38 The first sight of the rooms pleased Monica greatly. that all was perfect, nothing need be altered. In those days, if she had bidden him spend a hundred pounds on reconstruction, the lover would have obeyed, delighted to hear her express a wish. Though competence had come to him only after a lifetime of narrow means, Whittison felt no temptation to parsimony. Secure in his all-sufficing income, he grudged no expenditure that could bring himself or his wife's satisfaction. On the wedding tour in Cornwall, Devon, and Somerset, It lasted about seven weeks. Monica learnt, among other things, less agreeable, that her husband was generous with money.

Starting point is 06:24:20 He was anxious she should dress well, though only, as Monica soon discovered, for his own gratification. Soon after they had settled down at home, she equipped herself for the cold season, and Whittison cared little about the price, so long as the effect of her new costumes was pleasing to him. "'You are making a butterfly of me,' said Monica. when he expressed strong approval of a bright morning dress that had just come home. "'A beautiful woman,' he replied, with the nervous gravity which still possessed him when complimenting her, or saying tender things. A beautiful woman ought to go beautifully clad.

Starting point is 06:25:00 At the same time he endeavoured to impress her with the gravest sense of a married woman's obligations. His raptures, genuine enough, were sometimes interrupted in the oddest way, if Monica chanced to utter a careless remark of which he could not strictly approve. And such interruptions frequently became the opportunity for a long and solemn review of the wifely status. Without much trouble he had brought her into a daily routine which satisfied him. During the whole of the morning she was to be absorbed in household cares. In the afternoon he would take her to walk or drive, and the evening he wished her to spend either in drawing-room or library occupied with a book. Monica soon found that his idea of wedded happiness was that they should always be together.

Starting point is 06:25:49 Most reluctantly he consented her going any distance alone, for whatever purpose. Public entertainments he regarded with no great favor, but when he saw how Monica enjoyed herself at concert or theatre he made no objection to indulging her at intervals of a fortnight or so. His own fondness for music made this compliance easier. He was jealous of her forming new acquaintances. Indifferent to society himself, he thought his wife should be satisfied with her present friends, and could not understand why she wished to see them so often.

Starting point is 06:26:21 The girl was docile, and for a time he imagined that there would never be conflict between his will and hers. Whilst enjoying their holiday, they naturally went everywhere together, and were scarce an hour out of each other's presence, day or night. In quiet spots by the seashore, when they sat in solitude, Wittison's tongue was loosened, And he poured forth his philosophy of life with the happy assurance that Monica would listen passively. His devotion to her proved itself in a thousand ways. Week after week he grew, if anything, more kind, more tender.

Starting point is 06:26:57 Yet, in his view of their relations, he was unconsciously the most complete despot, a monument of male autocracy. Never had it occurred to Wittison that a wife remains an individual, with rights and obligations and dependent of her wifely condition. Everything he said presupposed his own supremacy. He took for granted that it was his to direct, hers to be guided. A display of energy, purpose, ambition on Monica's part, which had no reference to domestic pursuits, would have gravely troubled him. At once he would have set himself to subdue, with all gentleness, impulses so inimicable to his idea of the married state. It rejoiced him that she spoke with so little

Starting point is 06:27:41 sympathy of the principles supported by Miss Barfoot and Miss Nunn, these persons seemed to him well-meaning, but grievously mistaken. Miss Nunn, he judged, unwomanly, and hoped in secret that Monica would not long remain on terms of friendship with her. Of course his wife's former pursuits were an abomination to him, he could not bear to hear them referred to. Woman's sphere is in the home, Monica. Unfortunately girls are often obliged to go out and earn their living, but this is

Starting point is 06:28:11 unnatural, a necessity which advanced civilization will altogether abolish. You shall read John Ruskin. Every word he says about women is good and precious. If a woman can neither have a home of her own, nor find occupation in anyone else's, she is deeply to be pitied. Her life is bound to be unhappy. I sincerely believe that an educated woman has far better become a domestic servant than try to imitate the life of a man.

Starting point is 06:28:37 Monica seemed to listen attentively, but before long she accustomed herself to wear this look, whilst in truth she was thinking her own thoughts. And as often as not, they were of a nature little suspected by her prosing companion. He believed himself the happiest of men. He had taken a daring step, but fortune smiled on him. Monica was all he had imagined in his love-fever. Knowledge of her had as yet brought to light no single untruth, nor trait of character that he could condemn.

Starting point is 06:29:10 That she returned his love he would not and could not doubt. And something she said to him one day, early in their honeymoon, filled up the measure of his bliss. "'What a change you have made in my life, Edmund! How much I have to thank you for!' That was what he had hoped to hear. He had thought it himself, had wondered whether Monica saw her position in this light, and when the words actually fell from her lips he glowed.

Starting point is 06:29:37 with joy. This, to his mind, was the perfect relation of wife to husband. She must look up to him as her benefactor, her providence. It would have pleased him still better if she had not possessed a penny of her own, but happily Monica seemed never to give a thought to the sum at her disposal. Surely he was the easiest of men to live with. When he first became aware that Monica suffered an occasional discontent, it caused him troublous surprise. As soon as he understood that he desired more freedom of movement, he became anxious, suspicious, irritable. Nothing like a quarrel had yet taken place between them, but Whittison began to perceive that he must exert authority in a way he had imagined would never be necessary. All his fears, after all,

Starting point is 06:30:23 were not groundless. Monica's undomestic life, and perhaps the association with those Chelsea people, had left results upon her mind. By way of mild discipline, he first of all suggested, a closer attention to the affairs of the house. Would it not be well if she spent an hour a day in sewing or fancy work? Monica so far obeyed as to provide herself with some plain needlework, but Whitteson, watching with keen eye, soon remarked that her use of the needle was only a faint. He lay awake a night's, pondering darkly. On the present evening he was more decidedly out of temper than ever hitherto. He satisfied his hunger hurriedly, and in silence, Then, observing that Monika ate only a few morsels, he took offence at this.

Starting point is 06:31:11 "'I'm afraid you are not well, dear. You've had no appetite for several days.' "'As much as usual, I think,' she replied absently. They went into the library, commonly their resort of an evening. Wittison possessed several hundred volumes of English literature, most of them the works which are supposed to be indispensable to a well-informed man, though very few men even make a pretense of reading them. Self-educated, Whitteson deemed it his duty to make acquaintance with the great, the solid authors. Nor was his study of them affectation. For the poets he had little taste, the novelists he considered only profitable in intervals of graver reading. But history, political

Starting point is 06:31:55 economy, even metaphysics, genuinely appealed to him. He had always two or three solid books on hand, each with its marker. He studied them at stated hours. and always sitting at a table a notebook open beside him. A little work once well known, Todd's student manual, had formed his method and inspired him with zeal. Tonight, it being Sunday, he took down a volume of Barrow's sermons. Though not strictly orthodox in religious faith, he conformed to the practices of the Church of England, and since his marriage had been more scrupulous on this point than before. He abhorred unorthodoxy in a woman, and would not on any account have suffered Monica to surmise that he had his doubts concerning

Starting point is 06:32:41 any article of the Christian faith. Like most men of his kind, he viewed religion as a precious and powerful instrument for directing the female conscience. Frequently he read aloud to his wife, but this evening he showed no intention of doing so. Monica, however, sat unoccupied. After glancing at her once or twice, he said reprovingly, "'Have you finished your Sunday book?' Not quite, but I don't care to read just now." The silence that followed was broken by Monica herself. "'Have you accepted Mrs. Luke's invitation to dinner?' she asked. "'I have declined it,' was the reply, carelessly given.

Starting point is 06:33:24 Monica bit her lip. "'But why?' "'Surely we needn't discuss that over again, Monica.' His eyes were still on the book, and he stirred impatiently. "'But?' urged his wife. "'Do you mean to break with her altogether?' "'If so, I think it's very unwise, Edmund. What an opinion you must have of me, if you think I can't see other people's faults. I know it's very true all you say about her.

Starting point is 06:33:50 But she wishes to be kind to us, I'm sure, and I like to see something of a life so different from our own.' Whittison drummed on the floor with his foot. In a few moments, ignoring Monica's remarks, he stroked his beard, and asked with a show of casual interest. How was it you knew that, Mr. Barfoot? I had met him before, when I went there on the Saturday. Whittison's eyes fell, his brow was wrinkled. He's often there, then? I don't know. Perhaps he is. He's Miss Barfoot's cousin, you know.

Starting point is 06:34:26 You haven't seen him more than once before? No, why do you ask? Oh, it was only that he seemed to speak as if you were old acquaintances. That's his way, I suppose. Monica had already learned that the jealousy which Whittison so often betrayed before their marriage still lurked in his mind. Perceiving why, he put these questions, she could not look entirely unconcerned, and the sense of his eye being upon her caused her some annoyance.

Starting point is 06:34:57 "'You talked to him, didn't you?' she said, changing her position in the deep chair. Oh, the kind of talk that is possible with a perfect stranger. I suppose he is in some profession. I really don't know. Why, Edmund? Does he interest you? Only that one likes to know something about the people that are introduced to one's wife, Whittison answered, rather accurately. Their bedtime was half-past ten. Precisely at that moment Wittison closed his book,

Starting point is 06:35:28 glad to be relieved from the pretense of reading, and walked over the lower part of the house to see that all was right. He had a passion for routine. Every night before going upstairs he did a number of little things in unvarying sequence, changed the calendar for next day, made perfect order on his writing-table, wound up his watch, and so on. That Monica could not direct her habits with like exactitude was frequently a distress to him. If she chanced to forget any most trivial detail of daily custom, he looked very solemn, and begged her to be more vigilant. Next morning after breakfast, as Monica stood by the dining-room window,

Starting point is 06:36:07 and looked rather cheerlessly at a leaden sky, her husband came towards her if he had something to say. She turned and saw that his face no longer wore the austere expression which had made her miserable last night, and even during the meal this morning. "'Owe friends?' he said, with the attempt at playfulness, which always made him look particularly awkward. "'Of course we are,' Monica answered, smiling, but not regarding him. "'Didn't he behave gruffly last night to his little girl?'

Starting point is 06:36:38 "'Just a little?' "'And what can the old bear do to show that he's sorry?' "'Never be gruff again.' "'The old bear is something of an old goose as well, and torments himself in the silliest way. Tell him so if he ever begins to behave badly.' "'Isn't it a count-book morning?' "'Yes, I'll come to you at eleven. And if we have a nice, quiet, comfortable week, I'll take you to the Crystal Palace concert

Starting point is 06:37:06 next Saturday.' Monika nodded cheerfully, and went off to look after her housekeeping. The week was in all respects what Whitteson desired. Not a soul came to the house. Monica went to see no one. Save on two days it rained, sleeted, drizzled, fogged. On those two afternoons they had an hour's walk. Saturday brought no improvement of the atmosphere, but Whittison was in his happiest mood. He cheerfully kept his promise about the concert.

Starting point is 06:37:36 As they sat together at night, his contentment overflowed in tenderness like that of the first days of marriage. Now why can't we always live like this? What have we to do with other people? Let us be everything to each other, and forget that any one else exists." "'I can't help thinking that's a mistake,' Monica ventured to reply. For one thing, if we saw more people, we should have so much more to talk about and we are alone. It's better to talk about ourselves.

Starting point is 06:38:06 I shouldn't care if I never again saw any living creature but you. You see, the old bear loves his little girl better than she loves him. Monica was silent. Isn't it true? You don't feel that my company would be enough for you? Would it be right if I ceased to care for everyone else? There are my sisters. I ought to have asked Virginia to come to-morrow.

Starting point is 06:38:28 I'm sure she thinks I neglect her, and it must be dreadful living all alone like she does. Haven't they made up their mind yet about the school? I'm sure it's the right thing for them to do. If the venture were to fail and they lost money, we would see that they never came to want. They're so timid about it, and it wouldn't be nice, you know, to feel that they were going to be dependent upon us for the rest of their lives. I had better go and see Virgie to-morrow morning, and bring her back for dinner. If you like, Whittison assented slowly. But why not send a message, and ask her to come here? I had rather go. It makes a change for me.

Starting point is 06:39:08 This was a word Whittison detested. Change on Monica's lips always seemed to mean a release from his society. But he swallowed his dissatisfaction and finally consented to the arrangement. Virginia came to dinner and stayed until nightfall. Thanks to her sister's kindness, she was better clad than in former days, but her face signified no improvement of health. The enthusiasm with which Rhoda Nunn had inspired her appeared only in fitful affectations of interest when Monica pressed her concerning the projected undertaking down in Somerset. In general she had a dreamy, reticent look, and became uncomfortable when anyone gazed at her inquiringly. Her talk was of the most insignificant things. This afternoon she spent nearly

Starting point is 06:39:56 half an hour in describing a kitten which Mrs. Coinsby had given her. Care of the little animal appeared to have absorbed her whole attention for many days past. Another visitor to-day was Mr. Newdick, the city clerk who had been present at Monica's wedding. He and Mrs. Luke Whittison were the sole friends of her husband that Monica had seen. Mr. Newdick enjoyed coming to Hearn Hill. Always lugubrious to begin with, he gradually cheered up, and by the time for departure was loquacious. But he had the oddest ideas of talk suitable to a drawing-room. Had he been permitted, he would have held forth to Monica by the hour on the history of the business firm which he had served for a quarter of a century. This subject alone could animate him.

Starting point is 06:40:41 His anecdotes were as often as not quite unintelligible, save to people of city experience. For all that Monica did not dislike the man. He was a good, simple, unselfish fellow, and to her he behaved with exaggeration of respect. A few days later, Monica had a sudden fit of illness. Her marriage and the long open-air holiday had given her a much healthier appearance than when she was at the shop. But this present disorder resembled the attack she had suffered in Rutland Street. Whitteson hoped that it signified a condition for which she was anxiously waiting.

Starting point is 06:41:16 That, however, did not seem to be the case. The medical man, who was called in, asked questions about the patient's mode of life. Did she take enough exercise, had she wholesome variety of occupation? At these inquiries Wittison inwardly raged. He was tormented with the suspicion that they resulted from something Monica had said to the doctor. She kept her bed for three or four days, and on rising could only sit by the fireside, silent, melancholy. Whittison indulged his hope, though Monica herself laughed at aside, and even showed annoyance if he returned to the subject. Her temper was strangely uncertain.

Starting point is 06:41:55 Some chance word and conversation would irritate her beyond endurance, and after an outburst of petulant displeasure she became obstinately mute. At other times she behaved with such exquisite docility and sweetness that Whittison was beside himself with rapture. After a week of convalescence, she said one morning, "'Couldn't we go away somewhere? I don't think I shall ever be quite well staying here.' "'It's wretched weather,' replied her husband.

Starting point is 06:42:21 husband. Oh, but there are places where it wouldn't be like this. You don't mind the expense, do you, Edmund?" Expense? Not I, indeed. But—were you thinking of broad?" She looked at him with eyes that had suddenly brightened. "'Oh, would it be possible?

Starting point is 06:42:39 People do go out of England in the winter.' Whittison plucked at his grizzled beard and fingered his watch-chain. It was a temptation. Why not take her away to some place where only foreigners and strangers would be about them. Yet the enterprise alarmed him. I have never been out of England, he said with misgiving. All the more reason why we should go. I think Miss Barfoot could advise us about it. She has been abroad, I know, and she has so many friends.

Starting point is 06:43:07 I don't see any need to consult Miss Barfoot, he replied stiffly. I am not such a helpless man, Monica. Yet a feeling of inability to grapple with such an undertaking as this grew on him the more he thought of it. Naturally, his mind busied itself with such vague knowledge as he had gathered of those places in the south of France, where rich English people go to escape their own climate, Nice, Khan. He could not imagine himself setting forth to these regions. Doubtless it was possible to travel thither, and live there when one arrived, without a knowledge of French. But he pictured all sorts of humiliating situations resulting from his ignorance. Above everything he dreaded

Starting point is 06:43:48 humiliation in Monica's sight. It would be intolerable to have her comparing him with men who spoke foreign languages, and were at home on the continent. Nevertheless, he wrote to his friend Newdick, and invited him to dine, solely for the purpose of talking over this question with him in private. After dinner he broached the subject. To his surprise, Newdick had ideas concerning niece and Khan in such places. He had heard about them from the junior partner of his firm, a young gentleman who talked largely of his experiences abroad. "'In a moral lot there,' he said, smiling and shaking his head. "'Queer goings on.'

Starting point is 06:44:26 "'Oh, but that's among the foreigners, isn't it?' Thereupon Mr. Newdick revealed his acquaintance with English literature. "'Did you ever read any of Weeder's novels?' "'No, I never did.' "'I advise you to, before you think of taking your wife over there. She writes a great deal about those parts. People get mixed up, so, it seems. You couldn't live by yourself.

Starting point is 06:44:48 You have to eat at public tables. And you have all sorts of people trying to make acquaintance with Mrs. Whittison. They're a queer lot, I believe.' He abandoned the thought at once and utterly. When Monica learnt this, he gave only vague and unsatisfactory reasons, she fell back into her despondent mood. For a whole day she scarcely uttered a word. On the next day, in the dreary afternoon,

Starting point is 06:45:11 they were surprised by a call from Mrs. Luke. The widow, less than ever a widow in externals, came in with a burst of exuberant spirits, and began to scold the moping couple like an affectionate parent. "'When are you silly young people coming to an end of your honeymoon? Do you sit here day after day and call each other pretty names? Really, it's very charming in its way. I never knew such an obstinate case.' "'Monica, my black-eyed beauty, change your frock, and come with me to look up at the Hodgson balls. They're quite too awful. I can't face them alone, but I'm bound to keep in with

Starting point is 06:45:48 them. Be off and let me pitch into your young man for daring to refuse my dinner. Don't you know, sir, that my invitations are like those of royalty, polite commands?" Whittison kept silence, waiting to see what his wife would do. He could not, with decency object to her accompanying Mrs. Luke, yet hated the thought of such a step. A grim smile on his face, he sat stiffly, staring at the wall. To his inexpressible delight, Monica, after a short hesitation, excused herself. She was not well.

Starting point is 06:46:20 She did not feel able. "'Oh!' laughed the visitor. "'I see, I see. Do just as you like, of course.' "'But if Edmund has any new,' this phrase she had learned from a young gentleman late of Oxford, now of Tattersalls and elsewhere. "'He won't let you sit here in the dumps.

Starting point is 06:46:38 You are in the dumps, I can see.' The vivacious lady did not stay long. When she had rustled forth again to her carriage, Whittison broke into a pain of amorous gratitude. What could he do to show how he appreciated Monica's self-denial on his behalf? For a day or two he was absent rather mysteriously, and in the meantime made up his mind, after consultation with Newdick, to take his wife for a holiday in Guernsey. Monica, when she heard of this project, was at first moderately grateful, but in a day or two showed by reviving strength and spirits that she looked forward eagerly to the departure. Her husband advertised for lodgings in St. Peter Port, he would not

Starting point is 06:47:20 face the disagreeable chances of a hotel. In a fortnight's time all their preparations were made. During their absence, which might extend over a month, Virginia was to live at Herne Hill, in supervision of the two servants. On the last Sunday, Monica went to see her friends in Queen's Road. was ashamed to offer an objection. He much disliked her going there alone, but disliked equally the thought of accompanying her, for at Miss Barfoot's he could not pretend to sit, stand, or converse with ease. It happened that Mrs. Cosgrove was again calling. On the first occasion of meeting with Monica this lady paid her no particular attention.

Starting point is 06:48:00 Today she addressed her in a friendly manner, and of their conversation led to the discovery that both of them were about to spend the ensuing month in the same place. Mrs. Cosgrove hoped they might occasionally see each other. Of this coincidence, Monica thought better to say nothing on her return home. She could not be sure that her husband might not, at the last moment, decide to stay at Herne Hill, rather than incur the risk of her meeting an acquaintance in Guernsey. On this point he could not be trusted to exercise common sense. For the first time Monica had a secret she desired to keep from him, and the necessity was one which could not but have an unfavorable effect on her manner of regarding.

Starting point is 06:48:38 Whittison. They were to start on Monday evening. Through the day her mind was divided between joy in the thought of seeing a new part of the world, and a sense of weary dislike for her home. She had not understood until now how terrible would be the prospect of living here for a long time with no companionship but her husbands. On the return that prospect would lie before her. But no, their way of life must somehow be modified. On that she was resolved. End of Chapter 15. Chapter 16 of the Odd Women This Librivox recording is in the public domain.

Starting point is 06:49:20 Recording by Elizabeth Clette The Odd Women by George Gissing Chapter 16, Health from the Sea From Herne Hill to St. Peter Port was a change which made of Monica a new creature. The weather could not have been more propitious, day after day of still air and magnificent sky, with temperature which made a brisk walk at any hour thoroughly enjoyable, yet allowed one to sit at ease in the midday sunshine. Their lodgings

Starting point is 06:49:53 were in the best part of the town, high up, looking forth over blue sea to the cliffs of Sark. Whittison congratulated himself on having taken this step. It was like a revival of his honeymoon. Never since their settling down at home had Monica been so grateful, so affectionate. Why his wife was what he had thought her from the first, perfect in every wifely attribute! How lovely she looked as she sat down to the breakfast-table, after breathing sea-air at the open windows, in her charming dress, her black hair arranged in some new fashion, just to please him. Or, when she walked with him about the keys, obviously admired by men who passed them. Or when she seated herself in the open carriage for a drive which would warm her

Starting point is 06:50:43 cheeks and make her lips redder and sweeter. Edmund, she said to him one evening as they talked by the fireside, "'Don't you think you take life rather too gravely?' he laughed. "'Gravely? Don't I seem to enjoy myself?' Oh, yes, just now, but still in a rather serious way. One would think you had always cares on your mind, and were struggling to get rid of them. I haven't a care in the world. I am the most blessed of mortals.

Starting point is 06:51:19 So you ought to think yourself, but when we get back again, how will it be? You won't be angry with me. I really don't think I can live again as we were doing." "'Not live as—' His brow darkened. He looked at her in astonishment. "'We ought to have more enjoyment,' she pursued courageously. Think of the numbers of people who live a dull, monotonous life, just because they can't help it.

Starting point is 06:51:48 How they would envy us, with so much money to spend, free to do just what we like. Doesn't it seem a pity to sit there day after day alone?" "'Don't, my darling,' he implored. "'Don't. That makes me think you don't really love me.' "'Nonsense. I want you to see what I mean. I am not one of the silly people who care for nothing but amusement. But I do think we might enjoy our lives more when we are in London. We shan't live forever, you know. Is it right to spend day after day sitting there there in the house. But come, come, we have our occupations. Surely it ought to be a pleasure

Starting point is 06:52:30 to you to see that the house is kept in order. There are duties. Yes, I know. But these duties I could perform in an hour or two? Not thoroughly. Quite thoroughly enough. In my opinion, Monica, a woman ought never to be so happy as when she is looking after her home. It was the old pedantic tone. His figure, in sympathy with it, abandoned an easy attitude and became awkward. But Monica would not allow herself to be alarmed. During the past week she had conducted herself so as to smooth the way for this very discussion, unsuspecting husband. "'I wish to do my duty,' she said in a firm tone.

Starting point is 06:53:12 But I don't think it's right to make dull work for oneself when one might be living. I don't think it is living to go on week after week like that. If we were poor—' and I had a lot of children to look after as well as all the housework to do, I believe I shouldn't grumble—at least I hope I shouldn't. I should know that I ought to do what there was no one else to do, and make the best of it." But—' "'Make the best of it!' he interrupted indignantly. "'What an expression to use!

Starting point is 06:53:43 It would not only be your duty, dear, but your privilege.' "'Wait a moment, Edmund. If you were a shopman, earning fifteen shillings a week, and working from early morning to late at night, should you think it not only your duty but your privilege?" He made a wrathful gesture. "'What comparison is there? I should be earning a hard livelihood by slaving for other people. But a married woman who works in her own home, for her husband's children—' Work is work. And when a woman is overburdened with it she must find it difficult not

Starting point is 06:54:17 to weary of home and husband and children altogether. But of course I don't mean to say that my work is too hard. All I mean is that I don't see why anyone should make work, and why life shouldn't be as full of enjoyment as possible." Monica, you have got these ideas from those people at Chelsea. This is exactly why I don't care for you to see much of them. I utterly disapprove of—but you are mistaken. Miss Burfoot and Miss Nun are all for work. They take life as seriously as you do." Work? What kind of work? They want to make women unwomanly. to make them unfit for the only duties women ought to perform.

Starting point is 06:54:55 You know very well my opinions about that kind of thing.' He was trembling with the endeavour to control himself, to speak indulgently. I don't think, Edmund, there's much real difference between men and women. That is, there wouldn't be if women had fair treatment. Not much difference! Oh, come, you were talking nonsense! There's as much difference between their minds as between their bodies. They are made for entirely different.

Starting point is 06:55:21 different duties?" Monica sighed. Oh, that word! Duty! Pained unutterably, Whittison bent forward and took her hand. He spoke in a tone of the gravest but softest rebuke. She was giving entertainment to thoughts that would lead her who knew whither, that would undermine her happiness, would end by making both of them miserable.

Starting point is 06:55:45 He besought her to put all such monstrous speculations out of her mind. dear good little wife do be guided by your husband he is older than you darling and has seen so much more of the world i haven't said anything dreadful dear my thoughts don't come from other people they rise naturally in my own head Now what do you really want? You say you can't live as we were doing. What change would you make?" I should like to make more friends, and to see them often. I want to hear people talk, and know what is going on round about me. And to read a different kind of books, books that would really amuse me, and give me something I could think about with pleasure. Life will be a burden to me before long if I don't have more freedom." "'Freedom?' "'Yes, I don't think there's any harm in saying,

Starting point is 06:56:37 that? "'Freedom!' he glared at her. "'I shall begin to think that you wish she would never married me. I should only wish that if I were made to feel that you shut me up in a house, and couldn't trust me to go where I chose. Suppose the thought took you that you would go and walk about the city some afternoon, and you wished to go alone, just be more at ease. Should I have a right to forbid you, or grumble at you? And yet you are very dissatisfied if I wish to go anywhere alone.

Starting point is 06:57:07 But here's the old confusion. I am a man. You are a woman. I can't see that that makes any difference. A woman ought to go about just as freely as a man. I don't think it's just. When I have done my work at home, I think I ought to be every bit as free as you are. Every bit is free. And I'm sure, Edmund, that love needs freedom, if it is to remain love in truth." He looked at her keenly. That's a dreadful thing for you to say. So if I disapproved of your becoming the kind of woman that acknowledges no law, you will cease to love me." "'What law do you mean?' "'Why the natural law that points out a woman's place, and—' he added with shaken voice, "'commands her to follow her husband's guidance!' "'Now you are angry. We mustn't talk about it any more just now.' She rose and poured out a glass of water. Her hand trembled as she drank. Wittison fell into gloomy abstraction. Later, as they lay side by side, he wished to renew the theme, but Monica

Starting point is 06:58:12 would not talk. She declared herself too sleepy, turned her back to him, and soon slept indeed. That night the weather became stormy. A roaring wind swept the channel, and when day broke nothing could be seen but cloud and rain. Whittison, who had rested little, was in a heavy, taciturn mood. Monica, on the other hand, talked gaily, seeming not to to observe her companion's irresponsiveness. She was glad of the wild sky. Now they would see another aspect of violent life, the fierce and perilous surges beating about these granite shores. They had brought with them a few books, and Whitteson, off to breakfast, sat down by the fire to read. Monica first of all wrote a letter to her sister. Then, as it was still impossible

Starting point is 06:58:58 to go out, she took up one of the volumes that lay on a side table in their sitting-room, novels left by former lodges. Her choice was something or other with yellow back. Whitteson, watching all her movements furtively, became aware of the pictured cover. "'I don't think you'll get much good out of that,' he remarked, after one or two efforts to speak. "'No harm at all events,' she replied good-humouredly. "'I'm not so sure. Why should you waste your time? Take Guy Manoring if you want a novel.' "'I'll see how I like this first.'

Starting point is 06:59:34 He felt himself powerless, and suffered acutely from the thought that Monica was in rebellion against him. He could not understand what had brought about this sudden change. Fear of losing his wife's love restrained him from practical despotism, yet he was very near to uttering a definite command. In the afternoon it no longer rained, and the wind had less violence. They went out to look at the sea. Many people were gathered about the harbor, whence was a fine view of the great waves that broke

Starting point is 07:00:02 into leaping foam and spray against the crags of sark. As they stood thus occupied, Monica heard her name spoken in a friendly voice, that of Mrs. Cosgrove. "'I have been expecting to see you,' said the lady. "'We arrived three days ago.' Whittison, starting with surprise, turned to examine the speaker. He saw a woman of something less than middle age, unfashionably attired, good-looking, with an air of high spirits, Only when she offered her hand to him did he remember having met her at Miss Barfoot's. To be graceful in a high wind is difficult for any man. The ungainliness with which he returned Mrs. Cosgrove's greeting could not have been

Starting point is 07:00:42 surpassed, and probably would have been much the same, even had he not, of necessity, stood clutching at his felt hat. The three talked for a few minutes. With Mrs. Crosgrove were two persons, a younger woman and a man of about thirty. The latter a calmly and vivacious fellow, with rather long hair of the orange tawny hue. These looked at Monica, but Mrs. Cosgrove made no introduction. "'Come and see me, will you?' she said, mentioning her address.

Starting point is 07:01:12 "'One can't get much in the evenings. I shall be nearly always at home off to dinner, and we have music—of a kind.' Monica boldly accepted the invitation, and said she would be glad to come. Then Mrs. Cosgrove took leave of them, and walked landwards with her companions. Widdison stood gazing at the sea. There was no misreading his countenance. When Monaco had remarked it, she pressed her lips together, and waited for what he would say or do. He said nothing, but presently turned his back upon the waves and began to walk on. Neither spoke until they were in the shelter of the streets. Then Whittison asked suddenly,

Starting point is 07:01:49 Who is that person? I only know her name, and that she goes to Miss Barfoot's. "'It is a most extraordinary thing,' he exclaimed in high irritation. "'There's no getting out of the way of those people.' Monica was also angry. Her cheeks reddened by the wind grew hotter. "'It's still more extraordinary that you should object so to them. "'Whether or no, I do object, and I had rather you didn't go to see that woman.' "'You are unreasonable,' Monica answered sharply. "'Sertainly I shall go and see her.'

Starting point is 07:02:22 "'I forbid you to do so. If you go it will be in defiance of my wish." "'Then I am obliged to defy your wish. I shall certainly go.' His face was frightfully distorted. Had they been in a lonely spot, Monica would have felt afraid of him. She moved hurriedly away in the direction of their lodgings, and for a few paces he followed. Then he checked himself, turned round about, took an opposite way. With strides of rage he went along by the key, past the hotels and the smaller houses that follow, on to St. Samson. The wind, again preparing for a tempestuous night, beat and shook,

Starting point is 07:03:00 and at moments all but stopped him. He set his teeth like a madman, and raged on. Past the granite quarries at Bordeaux Harbour, then towards the wild north extremity of the island, the sandy waste of L'Ancrest. When darkness began to fall, no human being was in his range of sight. He stood on one spot for nearly a quarter of an hour, watching, or appearing to watch, the black low-flying scud their time for dining was seven shortly before this Whittison entered the house and went to the sitting-room Monica was not there he found her in the bedchamber before the looking-glass at the side of his reflected face she turned instantly "'Monica!' he put his hands on her shoulders, whispering hoarsely. "'Monika! Don't you love me?' she looked away, not replying. "'Monika!'

Starting point is 07:03:53 And of a sudden he fell on his knees before her, clasped her about the waist, burst into choking sobs. "'Have you no love for me? My darling! My dear beautiful wife, have you begun to hate me?' Tears came to her eyes. She implored him to rise and command himself. i was so violent so brutal with you i spoke without thinking but why should you speak like that why are you so unreasonable if you forbid me to do simple things with not the least harm in them you can't expect me to take it like a child i shall resist i can't help it he had risen and was crushing her in his arms his hot breath on her neck when he began to whisper i want to keep you all to myself i don't like these people they think so differently They put such hateful ideas into your mind. They are not the right kind of friends for you." You misunderstand them, and you don't in the least understand me.

Starting point is 07:04:52 Oh, you hurt me, Edmund!" He released her body and took her head between his hands. I had rather you were dead than that you should cease to love me. You shall go to see her. I won't say a word against it. But, Monica, be faithful, be faithful to me. Faithful to you! faithful to you," she echoed in astonishment.

Starting point is 07:05:13 "'What have I said or done to put you in such a state? Because I wish to make a few friends is all women do?' It's because I have lived so much alone. I have never had more than one or two friends, and I am absurdly jealous when you want to get away from me and amuse yourself with strangers. I can't talk to such people. I am not suited for society. If I hadn't met you in that strange way—by miracle!

Starting point is 07:05:39 I should never have been able to marry. If I allow you to have these friends—I don't like to hear that word. Why should you say allow? Do you think of me as your servant, Edmund? You know how I think of you. It is I who am your servant, your slave. Oh, I can't believe that! She pressed her handkerchief to her cheeks and laughed unnaturally.

Starting point is 07:06:02 Such words don't mean anything. It is you who forbid and allow and command, and—I will never gain you such words. only convince me that you love me as much as ever it is so miserable to begin quarrelling never again say you love me put your arms round my neck press closer to me she kissed his cheek but did not utter a word you can't say that you love me i think i am always showing it do get ready for dinner now it's past seven oh how foolish you have been of course their talk lasted half through the night monica held with remarkable firmness to the position she had taken a much older woman might have envied her steadfast yet quite rational assertion of the right to live a life of her own apart from that imposed upon her by the duties of wedlock A great deal of this spirit and the utterance had found was traceable to her association with the women whom Whitteson so deeply suspected. Prior to her sojourn in Rutland Street, she could not even have made clear to herself the demands which she now very clearly formulated. Believing that she had learned nothing from them, and till of late, instinctively opposing the doctrines held by Miss Barfoot and rode a nun,

Starting point is 07:07:17 monica in truth owed the sole bit of real education she had ever received to those few weeks of attendance in great Portland Street. Circumstances were now proving how apt a pupil she had been, even against her will. Marriage, as is always the case with women capable of development, made for her a new heaven and a new earth. Perhaps on no single subject did she now think as on the morning of her wedding-day. You must either trust me completely, she said, or not at all. If you can't and won't trust me, how can I possibly love you? I never to advise," asked her husband, baffled, and even awed by this extraordinary revelation of a woman he had supposed himself to know thoroughly.

Starting point is 07:08:02 "'That's a very different thing from forbidding and commanding,' she laughed. "'There was that novel this morning. Of course I know as well as you do that Guy mannering is better. But that doesn't say I am not to form my opinion of other books. You mustn't be afraid to leave me the same freedom you have yourself.' The result of it all was that Whittison felt his passionate love glow with new fire. For a moment he thought himself capable of accepting this change in their relations. The marvellous thought of equality between man and wife, that gospel which in far-off days will refashion

Starting point is 07:08:36 the world, for an instant smote his imagination, and exalted him above his native level. Monica paid for the energy she had put forth by a day of suffering. Her head ached intolerably. She had feverish symptoms, and could hardly. hardly raise herself from the bed. It passed, and she was once more eager to go forth under the blue sky that followed the tempest. "'Will you go with me to Mrs. Cosgroves this evening?' she asked of her husband. He consented, and after dinner they sought the hotel where their acquaintance was staying. Whittison was an extreme discomfort, partly due to the fact that he had no dress clothes

Starting point is 07:09:12 to put on. For far from anticipating or desiring any such intercourse in Guernsey he had never thought of packing an evening suit. that he known Mrs. Cosgrove, this uneasiness would have been spared him. That lady was in revolt against far graver institutions than the swallow-tail. She cared not a button in what garb her visitors came to her. On their arrival they found, to Whittison's horror, a room full of women. With the hostess was that younger lady they had seen on the key, Mrs. Cosgrove's unmarried sister. Miss Knott's health had demanded this retreat from the London winter. The guests were four, a Mrs. Bevis and her three daughters,

Starting point is 07:09:50 all invalidish persons, the mother somewhat lackadaisical, the girls with a look of unwilling spinsterhood. Monica, noteworthy among the gathering for her sweet, bright prettiness and the finish of her dress, soon made herself at home. She chatted gaily with the girls, wondering indeed at her own air of maturity, which came to her for the first time. Mrs. Cosgrove, an easy woman of the world when circumstances required it, did her best to get something out of Whittison, who presently thawed a little.

Starting point is 07:10:20 Then Miss Knott sat down to the piano, and played more than tolerably well, and the youngest Miss Bevis sang a song of Schubert, with passable voice, but in very distressing German, the sole person distressed by it being the hostess. Meanwhile Monica had been captured by Mrs. Bevis, who discoursed to her on a subject painfully familiar to all the old lady's friends. "'Do you know my son, Mrs. Whittiston? Oh, I thought you had perhaps met him. You will do so this evening, I hope. He is, oh! He is, oh! over here on a fortnight's holiday." "'Do you live in Gansy?' Monica inquired. "'I practically live here, and one of my daughters is always with me. The other two live with their brother in a flat in Bayswater. Do you care for flats, Mrs. Whittison?'

Starting point is 07:11:06 Monica could only say that she had no experience of that institution. "'I do think them such a boon,' pursued Mrs. Bevis. "'They are expensive, but the advantages and comforts are so many. My sudden wouldn't on any consideration give up his flat? As I was saying, he has always two of his sisters to keep house for him. He is quite a young man, not yet thirty, but, would you believe it? We are all dependent upon him. My son has supported the whole of his family for the last six or seven years, and that by his own work. It sounds incredible, doesn't it? But for him we should be quite unable to live. The dear girls have very delicate health, simply impossible for them to exert themselves in any way.

Starting point is 07:11:45 My son has made extraordinary sacrifices on our account. His desire was to be a professional musician, and everyone thinks he would have become eminent. Myself, I am convinced of it. Perhaps that is only natural. But when our circumstances began to grow very doubtful, and we really didn't know what was before us, my son consented to follow a business career, that a wine-merchant, with which his father was connected.

Starting point is 07:12:08 And he exerted himself so nobly, and gave such proof of such ability, that very soon all our fears were at an end. And now, before he is thirty, his position is quite assured. We have no longer a care. I live here very economically, really sweet lodgings on the road to St. Martins. I do hope you will come and see me. And the girls go backwards and forwards. You see we are all here at present. When my son returns to London he will take the eldest and the youngest with him. The middle girl, dear Grace, she is thought very clever in watercolours, and I am quite sure if it were necessary. she could pursue the arts and a professional spirit."

Starting point is 07:12:46 Mr. Bevis entered the room, and Monica recognized this brightly young man whom she had seen on the key. The hostess presented him to her new friends, and he got into talk with Whittison. Requested to make music for the company, he sang a gay little piece, which, to Monica at all events seemed one of the most delightful things she had ever heard. "'His own composition!' whispered Miss Grace, Bevis, then sitting by Mrs. Whittison. That increased her delight. Foolish as Mrs. Bevis undoubtedly was, she perchance had not praised her son beyond his merits. He looked the best of good fellows, so kind and merry and spirited,

Starting point is 07:13:23 such a capable man, too. It struck Monica as a very hard fate that he should have his family on his hands. What they must cost him! Probably he could not think of marrying just on their account. Mr. Bevis came and took a place by her side. "'Thank you so very much,' she said, "'for that charming song. Is it published?' "'Oh, dear, no!' he laughed and shook his thick hair about. "'It's one of two or three that I somehow struck out, and I was studying in Germany ages ago. You play, I hope.'

Starting point is 07:13:54 Manika gave a sad negative. "'Oh, what does it matter? There are hosts of people who will always be overjoyed to play when you ask them. It would be a capital thing if only those children were allowed to learn an instrument who showed genuine talent for music. "'In that case,' said Monica, "'there certainly wouldn't be hosts of people ready to play for me.' "'No,' his merry laugh was repeated. "'You mustn't mind when I contradict myself.

Starting point is 07:14:20 It's one of my habits. Are you here for the whole winter?' "'Only a few weeks, unfortunately.' "'And do you dread the voyage back?' "'To tell the truth I do. I had a very unpleasant time coming.' "'As for myself, how I ever undertake the thing I really don't know. One of these times I shall die. There's not a shadow of a doubt of that.

Starting point is 07:14:40 The girls always have to carry me ashore, one holding me by the hair and one by the boots. Happily, I am so emancipated that my weight doesn't distress them. I pick up flesh in a day or two, and then my health is dependis. As at present, you see how marvellously fit I look.' "'Yes, you look very well,' replied Monica, glancing at the fair calmly face. It's deceptive. All our family have wretched constitutions. If I go to work regularly for a couple of months without a holiday, I sink into absolute decrepitude. An office-chair has been specially made for me to hold me up at the desk. I beg your pardon for this clowning, Mrs. Whittison."

Starting point is 07:15:20 He suddenly added in another voice. The air puts me in such spirits. What air it is! Speaking quite seriously, my mother was saved by coming to live here. We believed her to be dying. And now I have hopes that she will live ever so many years longer." He spoke of his mother with evident affection, glancing kindly towards her with his blue eyes. Only once or twice had Monica ventured to exchange a glance with her husband.

Starting point is 07:15:46 It satisfied her that he managed to converse. What his mood really was could not be determined until afterwards. When they were about to leave she saw him, to her surprise, speaking quite pleasantly with Mr. Bevis. A carriage was procured to convey them home, and a sister. as soon as they had started, Monica asked her husband, with a merry look, how he had enjoyed himself. "'There is not much harm in it,' he replied dryly.

Starting point is 07:16:11 "'Harm? How like you, Edmund, to put it that way. Now confess you'll be glad to go again. I shall go if you wish.' "'Unsatisfactory man! You can't bring yourself to admit that it was pleasant to be among new people. I believe in your heart you think all enjoyment is wrong. The music was nice, wasn't it?

Starting point is 07:16:33 I didn't think much of the girls singing, but that fellow Bevis wasn't bad. Monica examined him as he spoke, and seemed to suppress a laugh. No, he wasn't at all bad. I saw you talking with Mrs. Bevis. Did she tell you anything about her wonderful son? Nothing particular. Oh, then I must tell you the whole story! And she did so, in a tone half of jest, half of serious approval.

Starting point is 07:17:01 I don't see that he has done anything more than his duty," remarked Whittison at the end. But he isn't a bad fellow. For private reasons, Monica contrasted this attitude towards Bevis with the disfavor her husband had shown to Mr. Barfoot, and was secretly much amused. Two or three days after that they went to spend the morning at Petit Bo Bay, and there encountered with Bevis and his three sisters. The result was an invitation to go back and have lunch at Mrs. Bevis's lodging. They accepted it, and remained with their acquaintances till dusk. The young man's holiday was at an end. Next morning he would face the voyage which he had depicted so grotesquely.

Starting point is 07:17:42 "'And alone!' he lamented to Monica. "'Only think of it. The girls are all rather below par just now. They had better stay here for the present.' "'And in London you will be alone, too.' "'Yes, it's very sad. I must bear up under it. The worst if it is, I am naturally subject to depression.

Starting point is 07:18:01 In solitude I sink. Sink. But the subject is too painful. Don't let us darken the last hours with such recollections. Whittison retained his indulgent opinion of the facetious young wine-merchant. He even laughed now and then in recalling some phrase or other that Bevis had used to him. Subsequently, Monica had several long conversations with the old lady. Impelled to gossipy frankness about all her affairs, Mrs. Bevis allowed it to be understood

Starting point is 07:18:29 that the chief reason for two of the girls always being with their brother was the possibility thus afforded of their meeting people, that is to say, of their having a chance of marriage. Mrs. Carsgrove and one or two other ladies did them social service. "'They never will marry,' said Monica to her husband, rather thoughtfully than with commiseration. "'Why not? They are nice enough girls?' "'Yes, but they have no money. And,' she smiled, "'people see that they want to find. husbands."

Starting point is 07:19:00 "'I don't see that the first matters, and the second is only natural.' Monica attempted no rejoinder, but said presently, "'Now they are just the kind of women who ought to find something to do.' "'Something to do? Why they attend to their mother and to their brother? What could be more proper?' "'They're a proper, perhaps, but they are miserable and always will be.' Then they have no right to be miserable.

Starting point is 07:19:27 They're doing their duty, and that ought to keep them cheerful." Monica could have said many things, but she overcame the desire, and laughed the subject aside. End of Chapter 16. Chapter 17 of the Odd Women. This Libravox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clet. The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 17.

Starting point is 07:19:55 The Triumph. not till midwinter did barfoot again see his friend the micklethwaite's by invitation he went to south tottenham on new year's eve and dined with them at seven o'clock he was the first guest that had entered the house since their marriage from the very doorstep everard became conscious of a domestic atmosphere that told soothingly upon his nerves the little servant who opened to him exhibited a gentle noiseless demeanour which was no doubt the result of careful discipline Micklethwaite himself, who at once came out into the passage, gave proof of a like influence. His hearty greeting was spoken in soft tones, a placid happiness beamed from his face. In the sitting-room, Micklethwaite's study, used for reception because the other had to serve as dining-room, tempered lamp-light and the glow of a hospitable fire showed the hostess and her blind sister standing in expectation. To Everard's eyes, both of them looked far better in health

Starting point is 07:20:56 than a few months ago. Mrs. Micklethwaite was no longer so distressingly old. An expression that resembled girlish pleasure lit up her countenance as she stepped forward. Nay, if he mistook not, there came a gentle warmth to her cheek, and the momentary downward glance was as graceful and modest as in a youthful bride. Never had Barfoot approached a woman with more finished courtesy, the sincere expression of his feeling. The blind sister he regarded in like spirit, his voice touched its softest note as he held her hand for a moment, and replied to her pleasant words. No undue indication of poverty disturbed him. He saw that the house had been improved in many ways since Mrs. Micklethwaite had taken possession of it. Pictures, ornaments, pieces of furniture

Starting point is 07:21:42 were added, all in simple taste, but serving to heighten the effect of refined comfort. Where the average woman would have displayed pretentious emptiness, Mrs. Micklethwaite had made a home, which in its way was beautiful. The dinner which she herself had cooked, and which she assisted in serving, aimed at being no more than a simple, decorous meal, but the guest unfaindly enjoyed it. Even the vegetables and the bread seemed to him to have a daintier flavor than at many a rich table. He could not help noticing and admiring the skill with which Miss Wheatley ate without seeing what was before her. Had he not known her misfortune, he would hardly have become aware of it by any peculiarity

Starting point is 07:22:22 as she sat opposite to him. The mathematician had learned to sit upon a chair like ordinary mortals. For the first week or two, it must have cost him severe restraint. Now he betrayed no temptation to roll and jerk and twist himself. When the ladies retired he reached from a sideboard a box which barfoot viewed with uneasiness. Do you smoke here? In this room? Oh, why not?

Starting point is 07:22:48 Everard glanced at the pretty curtains before the window. No, my mother. my boy, you do not smoke here, and in fact I like your claret. I won't spoil the flavour of it." "'As you please, but I think Fanny will be distressed. You shall say that I have abandoned the weed.' Emotions were at conflict in Micklethwaite's mind, but finally he beamed with gratitude. Barfoot, he bent forward and touched his friend's arm.

Starting point is 07:23:17 "'There are angels walking the earth in this our day. Science hasn't abolished them, my dear fellow, And I don't think it ever will." It falls to the lot of but few men to encounter them, and a few are still to entertain them permanently in a cottage at South Tottenham. "'You are right,' Micklethwaite laughed in a new way, with scarcely any sound, a change Everard had already noticed. These two sisters—but I had better not speak about them. In my old age I have become a worshipper, a mystic, a man of dream and vision.

Starting point is 07:23:50 "'How about worship in a parochial sense?' inquired Barfoot, smiling. "'Any difficulty of that point?' "'I conform, in moderation. Nothing would be asked of me. There is no fanaticism, no intolerance. It would be brutal if I declined to go to church on a Sunday morning. You see my strictly scientific attitude helps in avoiding offence. Fanny can't understand it, but my lack of dogmatism vastly relieves her. I've been trying to explain to her that the scientific mind—' can have nothing to do with materialism. The new order of ideas is of course very difficult for her to grasp. But in time—in time—'

Starting point is 07:24:29 For heaven's sake, don't attempt conversion. On no account whatever—but I should like her to see what is meant by perception and conception, by the relativity of time and space, and a few simple things of that kind." Barfoot laughed heartily. "'By the by,' he said, shifting to safer ground. My brother Tom is in London, and in wretched health. His angel is from the wrong quarter, from the Nethermost pit. I seriously believe that she has a plan for killing her husband. You remember my mentioning in a letter his horse accident? He is never recovered from that,

Starting point is 07:25:06 and as likely as not never will. His wife brought him away from Madeira just when he ought to have stopped there to get well. He settled himself at Torquay, whilst that woman ran about to pay visits. It was understood that she should go back to him at Torquay, but this she at length refused to do. The place was too dull. It didn't suit her extremely delicate health. She must live in London, her pure native air. If Tom had taken any advice he would have let her live just where she pleased, thanking Heaven that she was at a distance from him. But the poor fellow can't be away from her. He has come up, and here I feel convinced he will die. It's a very monstrous thing, but uncommonly like women in general who have got a man into their power."

Starting point is 07:25:51 Migglethwaite shook his head. "'You are being too hard upon them. You have been unlucky. You know my view of your duty.' "'I begin to think that marriage isn't impossible for me,' said Barfoot with a grave smile. "'Ha! Capital!' "'But as likely as not it will be marriage without forms. Imply a free union.' The mathematician was downcast. I'm sorry to hear that. It won't do.

Starting point is 07:26:18 We must conform. Besides, in that case, the person decidedly isn't suitable to you. You, of all men, must marry a lady. I should never think of anyone that wasn't a lady. Is emancipation getting as far as that? Do ladies enter into that kind of union? I don't know of any example. That's just why the idea tempts me.

Starting point is 07:26:40 Barfoot would go no further in explanation. How about your new algebra? Alas, my dear boy, the temptation is so frightful when I get back home. Remember that I have never known what it was to sit and talk through the evening with ordinary friends, let alone—it's too much for me just yet. And you know I don't venture to work on Sundays. That will come, all in good time. I must grant myself half a year of luxury after such a life as mine has been. Of course you must.

Starting point is 07:27:10 Let algebra wait. I think it over, of course, at odd moments. Church on Sunday morning is a good opportunity. Barfoot could not stay to see the old year out, but good wishes were none the less heartily exchanged before he went. Micklethwaite walked with him to the railway station, at a few paces distance from his house he stood and pointed back to it. That little place, Barfoot, is one of the sacred spots of the earth. Strange to think that the house has been waiting for me, there through all the years of my

Starting point is 07:27:41 hopelessness. I feel that a mysterious light ought to shine about it. It oughtn't to look just like common-houses." On his way home Everard thought over what he had seen and heard, smiling good-naturedly. Well, that was one ideal of marriage—not his ideal, but very beautiful amid the vulgarities and vileness of ordinary experience. It was the old-fashioned in its purest presentment, the consecrated form of domestic happiness, removed beyond reach of satire. only to be touched, if touched at all, with the very gentlest irony. A life by no means for him.

Starting point is 07:28:19 If he tried it, even with a woman so perfect, he would perish of en-wee. For him marriage must not mean repose, inevitably tending to drowsiness, but the mutual incitement of vigorous minds. Passion! Yes, there must be passion, at all events to begin with. Passion not impossible of revival in days subsequent to its first indulgence. beauty in the academic sense he no longer demanded, enough that the face spoke eloquently, that the limbs were vigorous.

Starting point is 07:28:50 Let beauty perish if it cannot ally itself with mind. Be a woman what else she may, let her have brains and the power of using them. In that demand the maturity of his manhood expressed itself. For casual amour the Odilis could still prevail with him. But for the life of wedlock, the durable companionship of man and woman, intellect was his first requirement. A woman with man's capability of understanding and reasoning, free from superstition, religious or social, far above the ignoble weaknesses which men have been base enough to

Starting point is 07:29:23 idealize in her sex, a woman who would scorn the vulgarism of jealousy, and yet know what it is to love. This was asking much of nature and civilization. Did he grossly deceive himself in thinking he had found the paragon? Or thus far had he advanced in his thoughts of Rhoda none. If the phrase had any meaning, he was in love with her. Yet strange, complex, of emotions, he was still only half serious in his desire to take her for a wife, wishing rather to amuse and flatter himself by merely inspiring her with passion.

Starting point is 07:29:58 Therefore he refused to entertain a thought of formal marriage. To obtain her consent to marriage would be nothing at all. It would afford him no satisfaction. But so to play upon her emotions that the proud— intellectual, earnest woman, was willing to defy society for his sake. Ah, that would be an end worth achieving. Ever since the dialogue in which he frankly explained his position, and all but declared love, he had not once seen Rhoda in private. She shunned him purposely beyond a doubt, and did not that denote a fear of him justified by her inclination? The postponement of what

Starting point is 07:30:33 must necessarily come to pass between them began to try his patience, as assuredly it inflamed his ardor. If no other resource offered, he would be obliged to make his cousin an accomplice by requesting her beforehand to leave him alone with Rhoda some evening when he had called upon them. But it was time that chance favoured him, and his interview with Miss Nunn came about in a way he could not have foreseen. At the end of the first week of January he was invited to dine at Miss Barfoot's. The afternoon had been foggy, and when he set forth there There seemed to be some likelihood of a plague of choking darkness such as would obstruct traffic. As usual he went by train to Sloan Square, purposing, for it was dry underfoot, and he could

Starting point is 07:31:17 not disregard small economies, to walk the short distance from there to Queen's Road. On coming out from the station he found the fog so dense that it was doubtful whether he could reach his journey's end. Cabs were not to be had. He must either explore the gloom, with risk of getting nowhere at all, or give it up and take a train back. But he longed too ardently for the sight of Rhoda to abandon his evening without an effort. Having with difficulty made his way into King's Road, he found progress easier on account of the shop illuminations. The fog, however, was growing every moment more fearsome,

Starting point is 07:31:52 and when he had to turn out of the highway, his case appeared desperate. Literally he groped along, feeling the fronts of the houses. As under ordinary circumstances he would have just had time enough to reach his cousins punctually, he must be very late. Perhaps they would conclude that he had not ventured out on such a night, and were already dining without him. No matter, as well go one way as another now. After abandoning hope several times, and all but asphyxiated, he found by inquiry of a man with whom he collided that he was actually within a few doors of his destination. Another effort, and he rang a joyous peal at the bell. A mistake. It was the wrong house, and he had to go two doors.

Starting point is 07:32:33 doors further on. This time he procured admittance to the familiar little hall. The servant smiled at him but said nothing. He was led to the drawing-room, and there found Rhoda Nunn alone. The fact did not so much surprise him as Rhoda's appearance. For the first time since he had known her, her dress was not uniform black. She wore a red silk blouse with a black skirt, and so admirable was the effect of this costume that he scarcely refrained from a delighted exclamation.

Starting point is 07:33:02 Some concern was visible in her face. "'I am sorry to say,' were her first words,—that Miss Barfoot will not be here in time for dinner. She went to Favisham this morning, and ought to have been back about half-past seven. But a telegram came some time ago. A thick fog caused her to miss the train, and the next doesn't reach Victoria till ten minutes past ten. It was now half-past eight.

Starting point is 07:33:27 Dinner had been appointed for the hour. explained his lateness in arriving. "'Is it so bad as that? I didn't know.' The situation embarrassed both of them. Barfoot suspected a hope on Miss Nunn's part that he would relieve her of his company, but even had there been no external hindrance, he could not have relinquished the happy occasion. To use frankness was best. "'Out of the question for me to leave the house,' he said, meeting her eyes and smiling, "'you won't be hard upon a starving man.'

Starting point is 07:33:57 At once Rhoda made a pretense of having felt no hesitation. "'Oh, of course. We will dine immediately.' She rang the bell. Miss Barfoot took it for granted that I would represent her. Look, the fog is penetrating even to our fireside. Cheerful, very. What is Mary doing at Favisham? Someone she has been corresponding with for some time begged her to go down and give an address to a number of ladies on a certain subject.

Starting point is 07:34:25 Ah, Mary is on the way to become a celebrity. Quite against her will, as you know. They went to dinner, and Barfoot, thoroughly enjoying the abnormal state of things, continued to talk of his cousin. It seems to me that she can't logically refuse to put herself forward. Work of her kind can't be done in a corner. It isn't a case of, Oh, teach the orphan girl to sew! I have used the same argument to her, said Rhoda. Her place at the head of the table had its full effect upon Everard's imagination. Why should he hold by a resolve of which he did not absolutely approve the motive? Why not simply ask her to be his wife, and so remove one element of difficulty from his pursuit?

Starting point is 07:35:09 True he was wretchedly poor. Marrying on such an income he would at once find his freedom restricted in every direction. But then, more likely than not, Rhoda had determined against marriage, and of him especially never thought for a moment as a possible husband. Well, that was what he wanted to ascertain. They conversed naturally enough until the meal was over. Then their embarrassment revived, but this time it was Rhoda who took the initiative. "'Shall I leave you to your meditations?' she asked, moving a few inches from the table. "'I should much prefer your society if you will grant me it for a minute longer.'

Starting point is 07:35:47 Without speaking she rose and led the way to the drawing-room. There sitting at a formal distance, from each other, they talked of the fog. Would Miss Barfoot be able to get back at all?" "'Apropos,' said Everard, "'did you ever read the city of dreadful night?' "'Yes, I have read it.' Without sympathy, of course. "'Why, of course. Do I seem to you a shallow optimist?' "'No, a vigorous and rational optimist, such as I myself aim at being.' "'Do you? But optimism of that kind must be proved by some effort on behalf of

Starting point is 07:36:22 of society." Precisely the effort I am making. If a man works at developing and fortifying the best things in his own character, he is surely doing society a service." She smiled skeptically. "'Yes, no doubt. But how do you develop and fortify yourself?' She was meeting him half-way, thought Everard, foreseeing the inevitable she wished to have

Starting point is 07:36:45 it over and done with. Or else—' "'I live very quietly,' was his reply. of grave problems most of my time. You know I am a great deal alone." Naturally? No, anything but naturally. Roda said nothing. He waited a moment, then moved to a seat much nearer hers. Her face hardened, and he saw her fingers lock together. Where a man is in love, solitude seems to him the most unnatural of conditions.

Starting point is 07:37:16 Please don't make me your confident, Mr. Barfoot," Rhoda said, with well-assured. presumed pleasantry. I have no taste for that kind of thing." But I can't help doing so. It is you that I am in love with. I am very sorry to hear it. Happily the sentiment will not long trouble you." He read in her eyes and on her lips a profound agitation.

Starting point is 07:37:39 She glanced about the room, and before he could again speak, had risen to ring the bell. You always take coffee, I think? Without troubling to give any assent, he moved apart and turned over some books on the table. For full five minutes there was silence. The coffee was brought. He tasted it and put his cup down. Seeing that Rhoda had, as it were, entrenched herself behind the beverage, and would continue to sip at it as long as might be necessary, he went and stood in front of her. Miss Nunn, I am more serious than you will give me credit for being. The sentiment, as you call it, has troubled me for some time, and will last. Her refuge failed her.

Starting point is 07:38:20 the cup she was holding began to shake a little. Please let me put it aside for you. Rhoda allowed him to do so, and then locked her fingers. "'I am so much in love with you that I can't keep away from this house more than a few days at a time. Of course you have known it. I haven't tried to disguise why I came here so often. It's so seldom that I see you alone. And now that fortune is kind to me I must speak as best I can.

Starting point is 07:38:47 I won't make myself ridiculous in your eyes if I can help. it. You despise the love-making of ball-rooms and garden parties. So do I, most heartily. Let me speak like a man who has few illusions to overcome. I want you for the companion of my life. I don't see very well how I am to do without you. You know, I think, that I have only a moderate competence. It's enough to live upon without miseries, that's all one can say. Probably I shall never be richer, for I can't promise to exert myself to earn money. I wish to live for other things. You can picture the kind of life I want you to share. You know me well

Starting point is 07:39:25 enough to understand that my wife, if we use the old word, would be as free to live in her own way as I to live in mine. All the same, it is love that I am asking for. Think how you may about man and woman. You know that there is such a thing as love between them, and that the love of a man and a woman who can think intelligently may be the best thing life has to offer them." He could not see her eyes, but she was smiling in a forced way, with her lips close sat. "'As you insisted on speaking,' she said at length, "'I had no choice but to listen.

Starting point is 07:40:02 It is usual, I think, if one may trust the novels, for a woman to return thanks when an offer of this kind has been made to her. So thank you very much, Mr. Barford.' Everard seized a little chair that was close by, planted it beside Rhoda's. there seated himself and took possession of one of her hands. It was done so rapidly and vehemently that Rhoda started back, her expression changing from sportive mockery to all but alarm. "'I will have no such thanks,' he uttered in a low voice, much moved, a smile making him look strangely stern. "'You shall understand what it means when a man says that he loves you.

Starting point is 07:40:40 I have come to think your face so beautiful that I am in torment with the desire to press my lips upon yours. Don't be afraid that I shall be brutal enough to do it without your consent. My respect for you is stronger even than my passion. When I first saw you, I thought you interesting because of your evident intelligence, nothing more. Indeed, you were not a woman to me. Now you are the only woman in the world. No other can draw my eyes from you. Touch me with your fingers, and I shall tremble.

Starting point is 07:41:11 That is what my love means. She was colourless. Her lips, just parted, quivered as the breath panted between them. She did not try to withdraw her hand. "'Can you love me in return?' Everard went on, his face still nearer. "'Am I anything like this to you? Have the courage you boast of. Speak to me as one human being to another, plain honest words. "'I don't love you in the least. And if I did I would never share your life.'

Starting point is 07:41:41 The voice was very unlike her familiar. your tones, it seemed to hurt her to speak. "'The reason? Because you have no faith in me?' "'I can't say whether I have or not. I know absolutely nothing of your life. But I have my work, and no one shall ever persuade me to abandon it.' "'Your work? How do you understand it? What is its importance to you?' "'Oh, and do you pretend to know me so well that you wished me to be your companion at every moment?" She laughed, mockingly, and tried to draw away her hand, for it was burnt by the

Starting point is 07:42:18 heat of his. Barfoot held her firmly. "'What is your work? Copying with a type-machine and teaching others to do the same? Isn't that it?' "'The work by which I earn money, yes. But if it were no more than that?' "'Explain then.' Passion was overmastering him as he watched the fine scorn in her eyes. He raised her hand to his lips. "'No,' Roda exclaimed with sudden wrath. "'Your respect! Oh, I appreciate your respect!' She wrenched herself from his grasp, and went apart. Barfoot rose, gazing at her with admiration. "'It is better I should be at distance from you,' he said. "'I want to know your mind, and not to be made insensate.' "'Wouldn't it be better still if you left me?' Roda suggested.

Starting point is 07:43:09 mistress of herself again. If you really wish it—' He remembered the circumstances and spoke submissively. Yet the fog gives me such a good excuse for begging your indulgence. The chances are I should only lose myself in an inferno. Doesn't it strike you that you take an advantage of me as you did once before? I make no pretense of equaling you in muscular strength, yet you try to hold me by force. He divined in her pleasure akin to his own, the delight of conflict. Otherwise, she would never have spoken thus.

Starting point is 07:43:43 Yes, it is true. Love revives the barbarian. It wouldn't mean much if it didn't. In this one respect, I suppose no man, however civilized, would wish the woman he loves to be his equal. Marriage by capture can't quite be done away with. You say you have not the least love for me. If you had, should I like you to confess it instantly?

Starting point is 07:44:04 A man must plead and woo. But there are different ways. I can't kneel before you and exclaim about my miserable unworthiness, for I am not unworthy of you. I shall never call you queen and goddess, unless in delirium, and I think I should soon weary of the woman who put her head under my foot. Just because I am stronger than you, and have stronger passions, I take that advantage, try to overcome, as I may, the womanly resistance which is one of your charms. How useless, then, for us to talk! If you are determined to remind me again and again that your strength puts me at your mercy. Oh, not that! I will come no

Starting point is 07:44:41 nearer to you. Sit down and tell me what I asked." Roda hesitated, but at length took the chair by which she was standing. You are resolved never to marry. I never shall, Roda replied firmly. But suppose marriage in no way interfered with your work? It would interfere hopelessly with the best part of my life. I thought you understood this. What would become of the encouragement I am able to offer our girls?" Encouragement to refuse marriage.

Starting point is 07:45:12 To scorn the old idea that a woman's life is wasted if she does not marry. My work is to help those women, who, by sheer necessity, must live alone. Women whom vulgar opinion ridicules. How can I help them so effectually as by living among them, one of them, and showing that my life is anything but weariness and lamentation? I am fitted for this. It gives me a sense of power and usefulness which I enjoy. Your cousin is doing the same work admirably.

Starting point is 07:45:42 If I deserted I should despise myself." Magnificent. If I could bear the thought of living without you, I should bid you persever and be great. I need no such bidding to persever. And for that very reason, because you were capable of such things, I love you only the more. There was triumph in her look, though she endeavoured to disguise it. "'Then for your own peace,' she said,

Starting point is 07:46:07 "'I must hope that you will avoid me. It is so easily done. We have nothing in common, Mr. Barfoot.' "'I can't agree with that. For one thing, there are perhaps not half a dozen women living whom I could talk with as I have talked with you. It isn't like that I shall ever meet one. Am I to make my bow and abandon and resignation the one chance of perfecting my life?'

Starting point is 07:46:29 "'You don't know me. We differ profoundly on a thousand essential points.' You think so, because you have a very wrong idea of me." Roda glanced at the clerk in the mantelpiece. "'Mr. Barfoot,' she said in a changed voice, "'you will forgive me if I remind you that it is past ten o'clock.' He sighed and rose. "'The fog certainly cannot be so thick now.

Starting point is 07:46:54 Shall I ask them to try and get you a cab?' "'I shall walk to the station.' "'Only one more word.' She assumed a quiet dignity which he could not. disregard. We have spoken in this way for the last time. You will not oblige me to take all sorts of trouble merely to avoid useless and painful conversation?" "'I love you, and I can't abandon hope.' Then I must take that trouble." Her face darkened, and she stood in expectation of his

Starting point is 07:47:24 departure. "'I mustn't offer to shake hands,' said Everard, drawing a step nearer. "'I hope you can remember that I had no choice but to be your hostess.' The face and tone affected him with a brief shame. Bending his head, he approached her, and held her offered hand, without pressure, only for an instant. Then he left the room. There was a little improvement in the night. He could make his way along the pavement without actual groping, and no unpleasant adventure

Starting point is 07:47:55 checked him before he reached the station. Rhoda's face and figure went before him. He was not downcast, for all that she had said, this woman was a woman. soon or late would yield herself. He had a strange, unreasoning assurance of it. Perhaps the obstinacy of his temper supplied him with that confident expectation. He no longer cared on what terms he obtained her—legal marriage or free union—it was indifferent to him. But her life should be linked with his if fierce energy or will meant anything. Miss Barfoot arrived at half-past eleven, after many delays on her journey. She was pierced with cold, choked with the poisonous

Starting point is 07:48:34 air, and had derived very little satisfaction from her visit to Favisham." "'What happened?' was her first question, as Rhoda came out into the hall with sympathy and solicitude. "'Did the fog keep our guest away?' "'No. He dined here.' "'It was just as well. You haven't been lonely.'

Starting point is 07:48:54 They spoke no more on the subject until Miss Barfoot recovered from her discomfort, and was enjoying a much-needed supper. "'Did he offer to go away?' It was really impossible. It took him more than half an hour to get here from Sloan Square. Oh, foolish fellow! Why didn't he take a train back at once? There was a peculiar brightness in Rhoda's countenance, and Miss Barfoot had observed it from the first. Did you quarrel much?

Starting point is 07:49:22 Not more than was to be expected. He didn't think of staying for my return. He left about ten o'clock. Of course, quite late enough under the circumstances. It was very unfortunate, but I don't suppose Everard cared much. He would enjoy the opportunity of teasing you." A glance told her that Everard was not alone in his enjoyment of the evening. Rhoda led the talk into other channels, but Miss Barfoot continued to reflect on what she

Starting point is 07:49:49 had perceived. A few evenings after, when Miss Barfoot had been sitting alone for an hour or two, Roda came to the library and took a place near her. The elder woman glanced up from her book, and saw that her friend had something special to say. "'What is it, dear?' I am going to tax your good nature, and to ask you about unpleasant things." Miss Barfoot knew immediately what this meant.

Starting point is 07:50:15 She professed readiness to answer, but had an uneasy look. "'Will you tell me in plain terms what it was that your cousin did when he disgraced himself?' "'Must you really know?' "'I wish to know.' There was a pause. Miss Barfoot kept her eyes on the page open before her. Then I shall take the liberty of an old friend, Rhoda. Why do you wish to know?"

Starting point is 07:50:40 "'Mr. Barfoot,' answered the other dryly, "'has been good enough to say that he is in love with me.' Their eyes met. "'I suspected it. I felt sure it was coming. He asked you to marry him?' "'No, he didn't,' replied Rhoda in a purposely ambiguous phrase. "'You wouldn't allow him to.' At all events it didn't come to that.

Starting point is 07:51:03 I should be glad if you would let me know what I asked." Miss Barfoot deliberated, but finally told the story of Amy Drake. Her hand supporting one knee, her head bent, Rhoda listened without comment, and to judge from her features, without any emotion of any kind. "'That,' said her friend at the close, "'is the story as it was understood at the time, disgraceful to him in every particular. He knew what was said of him, and offered not a word contradiction. But not very long ago he asked me one evening if you had been informed of this scandal. I told him that you knew he had done something which I thought very base.

Starting point is 07:51:44 Everard was hurt, and thereupon he declared that neither I nor any of his acquaintances knew the truth, that he had been maligned. He refused to say more. And what am I to believe?" Rhoda was listening with livelier attention. He declared that he wasn't to blame. I suppose he meant that. But it is difficult to see. Of course the truth can never be known, said Rhoda with sudden indifference, and it doesn't matter. Thank you for satisfying my curiosity. Miss Barfoot waited a moment, then laughed.

Starting point is 07:52:18 Someday, Rhoda, you shall satisfy mine. Yes, if we live long enough? What degree of blame might have attached to Barfoot, Rhoda did not care to ask herself? she thought no more of the story of course there must have been other such incidents in his career morally he was neither better nor worse than men in general she viewed with contempt the women who furnished such opportunities in her judgment of the male offenders she was more lenient more philosophical than formerly she had gained her wish had enjoyed her triumph a raising of the finger and everard barfoot would marry her assured of that she felt a new contentment in life at times when she was occupied with her things as far as possible from this experience, a rush of joy would suddenly fill her heart, and make her cheek glow. She moved among people with a conscious dignity quite unlike that which had only satisfied her need of distinction. She spoke more softly, exercised more patience,

Starting point is 07:53:17 smiled where she had been wont to scoff. Miss Nunn was altogether a more amiable person. Yet she convinced herself essentially quite unchanged. She pursued the aim of her life with less bitterness, in a larger spirit, that was all. But pursued it, and without fear of being diverted from the generous path. End of Chapter 17. Chapter 18 of the Odd Women. This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette. The Odd Women, by George Gissing.

Starting point is 07:53:55 Chapter 18. A reinforcement. Throughout January. barfoot was endeavoring to persuade his brother Tom to leave London, where the invalid's health perceptibly grew worse. Doctors were urgent to the same end, but ineffectually. For Mrs. Thomas, though she professed to be amazed at her husband's folly in remaining where he could not hope for recovery, herself refused to accompany him any with her. This pair had no children. The lady always spoke of herself as a sad sufferer from mysterious infirmities, and had in fact a tendency to hysteria, which confused itself inextricably with the results of evil nurture and

Starting point is 07:54:37 the impulses of a disposition originally base. Nevertheless, she made a figure in a certain sphere of vulgar wealth, and even gave opportunity to scandalous tongues. Her husband, whatever his secret thought, would hear nothing against her. His temper, like Everard's, was marked with stubbornness, and after a good deal of wrangling he forbade his brother to address him again on the subject of their disagreement." "'Tom is dying,' wrote Everard early in February, to his cousin in Queens Road. "'Dr. Swain assures me that unless he be removed he cannot last more than a month or two. This morning I saw the woman.'

Starting point is 07:55:17 It was thus he always referred to his sister-in-law, and talked to her in what was probably the plainest language she ever had the privilege of hearing. It was a tremendous scene, brought to a close only by her flinging herself on the sofa with shrieks which terrified the whole household. My idea is that we must carry the poor fellow away by force. His infatuation makes me rage and curse, but I am bent on trying to save his life. Will you come and give me your help?" A week later they succeeded in carrying the invalid back to Torquay.

Starting point is 07:55:51 Mrs. Barfoot had abandoned him to his doctors, nurses, and angry relatives. She declared herself driven out of the house, and went to live at a fashionable hotel. Hell. Everard remained in Devon for more than a month, devoting himself with affection, which the trial of his temper seemed only to increase, to his brother's welfare. Thomas improved a little. Once more there was hope. Then, on a sudden, frantic impulse, after writing fifty letters which elicited no reply, he travelled in pursuit of his wife. And three days after his arrival in London, he was dead. By a will, executed at Torquie, he was bequeathed to Everard about a quarter of his wealth. All the rest went to Mrs. Barfoot,

Starting point is 07:56:35 who had declared herself too ill to attend the funeral, but in a fortnight was sufficiently recovered to visit one of her friends in the country. Everard could now count upon an income of not much less than fifteen hundred a year. That his brother's death would enrich him he had always foreseen, but no man could have exerted himself with more ardent energy to postpone that advantage. The widow charged him, wherever she happened to be, with deliberate fratricide. She vilified his reputation by word of mouth or by letter to all who knew him, and protested that his furious wrath at not having profited more largely by the will put her in fear of her life. This last remarkable statement was made in a long and violent

Starting point is 07:57:17 epistle to Miss Barfoot, which the recipient showed to her cousin on the first opportunity. Everard had called one Sunday morning—it was the end of March, to say good-bye on his departure for a few weeks' travel. Having read the letter, he laughed with a peculiar fierceness. "'This kind of thing,' said Miss Barfoot, "'may necessitate your prosecuting her. There is a limit, you know, even to a woman's license.' "'I am far more likely,' he replied, to purchase a very nice little cane, and give her an exemplary thrashing.

Starting point is 07:57:52 "'Oh, oh! Upon my word I see no reason against it. That's how I should deal with a man who talked about me in this way, and But, nonetheless, if he were a puny creature, quite unable to protect himself—that furious scene before we got Tom away, I felt most terribly tempted to beat her. There's a great deal to be said for woman beating. I am quite sure that many a labouring man who pommels his wife is doing exactly the right thing.

Starting point is 07:58:17 No other measure would have the least result. You see what comes of impunity. If this woman saw the possibility that I should give her a public caning, she would be far more careful how she behaved herself. us ask Miss Nunn's opinion." Rhoda had that moment entered the room. She offered her hand, frankly, and asked what the subject was. "'Glance over this letter,' said Barfoot.

Starting point is 07:58:40 "'Oh, you have seen it. I propose to get a light, supple, dandyish cane, and to give Mrs. Thomas Barfoot half a dozen smart cuts across the back in her own drawing-room, some afternoon when people were present. What have you to say to it?' He spoke with such a show of angry seriousness that Rhoda paused before replying. "'I sympathised with you,' she said at length, "'but I don't think I would go to that extremity.' Everard repeated the argument he had used to his cousin. "'You are quite right,' Rhoda assented.

Starting point is 07:59:14 I think many women deserve to be beaten and ought to be beaten. But public opinion would be so much against you. What do I care? So is public opinion against you. "'Very well. Do as you like. Miss Barfoot and I will come to the police court and give strong evidence in your favor.' "'Now there's a woman!' exclaimed Everard, not all in jest, for Rhoda's appearance had made his nerves thrill and his pulse beat. "'Look at her, Mary. Do you wonder that I would walk the diameter of the globe to win her love?' Rhoda flushed scarlet, and Miss Barfoot was much embarrassed. Neither could have anticipated such an utterance as this.

Starting point is 07:59:53 "'That's the simple truth,' went on Everard recklessly, "'and she knows it, and yet won't listen to me. "'Well, good-bye to you both. Now that I have so grossly misbehaved myself, she has a good excuse for refusing even to enter the room when I am here. But do speak a word for me whilst I am away, Mary.' He shook hands with them, scarcely looking at their faces, and abruptly departed. The women stood for a moment at a distance from each other.

Starting point is 08:00:21 Then Miss Barfoot glanced at her friend and laughed. Really, my poor cousin is not very discreet." "'Anything but,' Roda answered, resting on the back of a chair, her eyes cast down. "'Do you really think you will cane his sister-in-law?' "'How can you ask such a question? It would be amusing. I should think better of him for it.' "'Well, make it a condition.

Starting point is 08:00:47 We know the story of the lady and her glove. I can see you sympathise with her.' Rhoda laughed and went away, leaving Miss Barfoot with the impression that she had revealed a genuine impulse. It seemed not impossible that Rhoda might wish to say to her lover, Face this monstrous scandal, and I am yours. A week passed, and there arrived a letter with a foreign stamp addressed to Miss Nunn. Happening to receive it before Miss Barfoot had come down to breakfast, she put it away

Starting point is 08:01:16 in a drawer till evening leisure, and made no mention of its arrival. appeared in her behaviour through the day. After dinner she disappeared, shutting herself up to read the letter. "'Dear Miss Nunn, I am sitting at a little marble table outside a cafe on the Canabierre. Does that name convey anything to you?' "'The Canabierre is the principal street of Marseilles, street of gorgeous cafes and restaurants, just now blazing with electric light. You, no doubt, are shivering by the fireside. Here it is like an evening of summer. I've dined luxuriously, and I'm taking my coffee whilst I write. At a table near to me sit two girls, engaged in the liveliest possible conversation,

Starting point is 08:01:59 of which I catch a few words now and then, pretty French phrases that caress the ear. One of them is so strikingly beautiful that I cannot take my eyes from her when they have been tempted to that quarter. She speaks with indescribable grace and animation, has the sweetest eyes and lips. And all the time I am thinking of someone else. Ah, if you were here! How we would enjoy ourselves among these southern scenes! Alone it is delightful! But with you for a companion, with you to talk about everything in your splendidly frank way!

Starting point is 08:02:35 This French girl's talk is, of course, only silly chatter. It makes me long to hear a few words from your lips. Strong, brave, intelligent. I dream of the ideal possibility. Suppose I were to look up and see you standing just in front of me, there on the pavement. You have come in a few hours straight from London. Your eyes glow with delight. Tomorrow we shall travel on to Genoa.

Starting point is 08:03:00 You and I, more than friends, and infinitely more than the common husband and wife. We have bidden the world go round for our amusement. Henceforth it is our occupation to observe and discuss, and make merry. Is it all in vain? Roda, if you never love me, my life will be poor to what it might have been, and you, you also will lose something. In imagination I kiss your hands and your lips." Everard Barfoot.

Starting point is 08:03:32 There was an address at the head of this letter, but certainly Barfoot expected no reply, and Rhoda had no thought of sending one. Every night, however, she unfolded the sheet of thin foreign paper, and read more than once what was written upon it. Read it with external calm, with a brow of meditation, and afterward sat for some time in absent mood. "'Would he write again?' Her daily question was answered in rather more than a fortnight. This time the letter came from Italy. It was lying on the hall table when Rota returned from Great Portland Street, and Miss Barfoot was the first to read the address. They exchanged no remark. On breaking the envelope—she did so at once—rhoda found a little bunch of violets,

Starting point is 08:04:17 crushed but fragrant. "'These in return for your cheddar pinks,' began the informal note accompanying the flowers. I had them an hour ago from a pretty girl in the streets of Palmer. I didn't care to buy and walked on, but the pretty girl ran by me and with gentle force fixed the flowers in my button-hole, so that I had no choice but to stroke her velvety cheeks and give her Lera. How hungry I am for the sight of your face! Think of me sometimes, dear friend."

Starting point is 08:04:48 She laughed, and laid the letter and its violets away with the other. I must depend on you, it seems, for news of Everard," said Miss Barfoot after dinner. "'I can only tell you,' Roda answered lightly, that he has travelled from the south of France to the north of Italy, with much observation of female countenances. He informs you of that?" Very naturally. It is his chief interest. One likes people to tell the truth."

Starting point is 08:05:19 Barfoot was away until the end of April, but after that note from Parma he did not write. One bright afternoon in May, a Saturday, he presented himself at his cousin's house, and found two or three collars in the drawing-room—ladies, as usual. One of them was Miss Winifred Haven. was Mrs. Whittison. Mary received him without effusiveness, and after a few minutes talk with her he took a place by Mrs. Whittison, who, it struck him, looked by no means in such good spirits as during the early days of her marriage. As soon as she began to converse, his impression of a change in her was confirmed. The girlishness so pleasantly noticeable when he first knew her had

Starting point is 08:05:58 disappeared, and the gravity substituted for it was suggestive of disillusion, of trouble. She asked him if he knew some people named Bevis, who occupied a flat just above his own. "'Bevis? I have seen the name on the index at the foot of the stairs, but I don't know them personally.' "'That was how I came to know that you live there,' said Monica. "'My husband took me to call upon the Bevis's, and there we saw your name. At least we supposed it was you, and Miss Barfoot tells me we were right.' "'Oh, yes, I live there all alone, a gloomy bachelor. "'How delightful if you knocked at my door some day!

Starting point is 08:06:36 When you and Mr. Whittison are again calling on your friends!' Monica smiled, and her eyes wandered restlessly. "'You have been away, out of England,' she next said. "'Yes, in Italy. I envy you.' "'You have never been there?' "'No, not yet.' He talked a little of the agreeables and disagreeables of life in that country,

Starting point is 08:07:01 But Mrs. Whitterson had become irresponsible. He doubted at length whether she was listening to him. So has Miss Haven stepped this way. He took an opportunity of a word aside with his cousin. Miss Nunn not at home? No, won't be till dinner-time. Quite well. Never was better. Would you care to come back and dine with us at half-past seven? Of course I should. With this pleasant prospect he took his leave. The afternoon being sunny, instead of

Starting point is 08:07:31 of walking straight to the station, to return home. He went out to the embankment, and sauntered round by Chelsea Bridge Road. As he entered Sloan's square, he saw Mrs. Whittison, who was coming towards the railway. She walked rather wearily, with her eyes on the ground, and did not become aware of him until he addressed her. "'Are we travelling the same way?' he asked. "'Westward.' "'Yes, I am going all the way round to Portland Road.' They entered the station, Barfoot chatting humorously.

Starting point is 08:08:02 And so intent was he on the expression of his companion's downcast face that he allowed an acquaintance to pass close by him unobserved. It was road a nun, returning sooner than Miss Barfoot had expected. She saw the pair, regarded them with a moment's keen attentiveness, and went on out into the street. In the first-class carriage which they entered there was no other passenger as far as Barfoot's station. He could not resist the temptation to use rather an intimate.

Starting point is 08:08:28 tone, though one that was quite conventional, in a hope that he might discover something of Mrs. Whittison's mind. He began by asking whether she thought it a good academy this year. She had not yet visited it, but hoped to do so on Monday. Did she herself do any kind of artistic work? Oh, nothing, whatever. She was a very useless and idle person. He believed she had been a pupil of Miss Barfuts at one time. Yes, for a very short time indeed just before her marriage. Was she not an intimate friend of Miss Nunn?' Hardly intimate. They knew each other a few years ago, but Miss Nunn did not care much about her now.

Starting point is 08:09:06 Probably because I married," she added with a smile. "'Is Miss Nunn really such a determined enemy of marriage?' She thinks it pardonable and very weak people. In my case she was indulgent enough to come to the wedding. This piece of news surprised Barfoot. She came to your wedding, and wore a wedding garment. Oh, yes, and looked very nice. Do describe it to me. Can you remember?"

Starting point is 08:09:32 Seeing that no woman ever forgot the details of another's dress, on however trivial an occasion, and at whatever distance of time, Monica was of course able to satisfy the inquirer. Her curiosity excited she ventured in turn upon one or two insidious questions. You couldn't imagine Miss Nunn in such a costume? I should very much like to have seen her. She has a very striking face, don't you think so?" Indeed I do.

Starting point is 08:09:58 A wonderful face." Their eyes met, barfoot bent forward from his place opposite Monica. To me the most interesting of all faces, he said softly. His companion blushed with surprise and pleasure. Does it seem strange to you, Mrs. Whittison? Oh! Why? Not at all.

Starting point is 08:10:20 All at once she had brightened astonishingly. This subject was not pursued. but for the rest of the time they talked with a new appearance of mutual confidence and interest, Monica retaining her pretty, half-bashful smile. And when Barfoot alighted at Bayswater, they shook hands within a special friendliness, both seeming to suggest a wish that they might soon meet again. They did so, not later than the following Monday. Remembering what Mrs. Whittison had said of her intention to visit Burlington House,

Starting point is 08:10:48 Barfoot went there in the afternoon. If he chanced to encounter the pretty little woman, it would not be disagreed. Perhaps her husband might be with her, and in that case he could judge of the terms on which they stood. A surly fellow, Whittison, very likely to play the tyrant, he thought. If he were not mistaken, she had wearied of him and regretted her bondage—the old story. Thinking thus and strolling through the rooms with casual glances at a picture, he discovered his acquaintance, catalogue in hand, alone for the present. Her pensive face again answered to his smile. They drew back from the pictures and sat down.

Starting point is 08:11:23 and sat down. "'I dined with our friends at Chelsea on Saturday evening,' said Barfoot. "'On Saturday, you didn't tell me you were going back again?' I wasn't thinking of it just at the time." Manika hinted an amused surprise. "'You see,' he went on, "'I expected nothing, and happy for me that it was so. Miss Nunn was in her severest mood. I think she didn't smile once through the evening.

Starting point is 08:11:50 I will confess to you that I wrote her a letter whilst I was abroad, and it offended her, I suppose. I don't think you can always judge her thoughts by her face?" Perhaps not, but I have studied her face so often and so closely. For all that she is more of a mystery to me than any woman I have ever known. That, of course, is partly the reason of her power over me. I feel that if ever—if ever she should disclose herself to me it would be the strangest revelation. Every woman wears a mask except to one man.

Starting point is 08:12:22 But Rhoda's, Miss Nuns, is I fancy a far-completed disguise than I ever tried to pierce." Monica had a sense of something perilous in this conversation. It arose from a secret trouble in her own heart, which she might involuntarily be led to betray. She had never talked thus confidentially with any man, not in truth with her husband. There was no fear whatever of her conceiving an undue interest in Barfoot. but certain reasons assured her of that, but talk that was at all sentimental gravely threatened her peace, what little remained to her.

Starting point is 08:12:57 It would have been better to discourage this man's confidences, yet they flattered her so pleasantly, and afforded such a fruitful subject for speculation, that she could not obey the prompting of prudence. "'Do you mean?' she said. That Miss Nunn seems to disguise her feelings. It is supposed to be wrong, isn't it, for a man to ask one woman her opinion of another?" "'I can't be treacherous if I wished,' Monica replied. I don't fear that I understand her."

Starting point is 08:13:28 Barford wondered how much intelligence he might attribute to Mrs. Whitterson. Obviously her level was much below that of Rhoda. Yet she seemed to possess delicate sensibilities, and a refinement of thought not often met with in women of her position. desiring her aid, he looked at her with a grave smile and asked, "'Do you believe her capable of falling in love?' Manika showed a painful confusion. She overcame it, however, and soon answered. She would, perhaps, try not—not to acknowledge it to herself.

Starting point is 08:14:02 When, in fact, it had happened. She thinks it so much nobler to disregard such feelings. I know she is to be an inspiring example to the women who cannot hope to marry. He laughed silently, and I suppose it is quite possible that mere shame would withhold her from taking the opposite course. I think she is very strong. But—but—he looked eagerly into her face. I can't tell. I don't really know her. A woman may be as much a mystery to another woman as she is to a man.

Starting point is 08:14:36 On the whole, I am glad to hear you say that. I believe it. It is only the vulgar that hold a different time. opinion." "'Shall we look at the pictures, Mr. Barfoot?' "'Oh, I am so sorry I have been wasting your time.' Nervously disclaiming any such thought, Monica rose and drew near to the canvases. They walked on together for some ten minutes, until Barfoot, who had turned to look at

Starting point is 08:15:00 a passing figure, said in his ordinary voice, "'I think that is Mr. Whittison on the other side of the room.' Monica looked quickly round and saw her husband, as if occupied with the pictures, glad glancing in her direction. End of Chapter 18. Chapter 19 of the Odd Women. This Libravox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette.

Starting point is 08:15:31 The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 19. The Clank of the Chains. Since Saturday evening, Monica and her husband had not been on speaking terms. A visit she paid to Mildred Vesper after her call that Miss Barfoot's prolonged itself so that she did not reach home until the dinner hour was long past. On arriving, she was met with an outburst of tremendous wrath, to which she opposed a resolute and haughty silence, and since then the two had kept as much apart as possible.

Starting point is 08:16:06 Whittison knew that Monica was going to the Academy. He allowed her to set forth alone, and even tried to persuade himself that he was indifferent as to the hour of her return. But she had not long been gone before he followed. Insufferable misery possessed him. His married life threatened to terminate in utter wreck, and he had the anguish of recognizing that to a great extent this catastrophe would be his own fault. Resolve as he might, he found it impossible to repress the impulses of jealousy, which as soon as peace had been declared between them, brought about a new misunderstanding. Terrible thoughts smoldered in his mind. He felt himself to be one of those men who were driven by passion into crime. Deliberately, he had brooded over a tragic

Starting point is 08:16:53 close to the wretchedness of his existence. He would kill himself, and Monica should perish with him. But an hour of contentment sufficed to banish such visions as sheer frenzy. He saw once more how harmless, how natural were Monica's demands, and how peacefully he might live with her but for the curse of suspicion from which he could not free himself. Any other man would deem her a model wifely virtue. Her care of the house was all that reason could desire. In her behavior he had never detected the slightest impropriety. He believed her chaste as any woman living. She asked only to be trusted, and that, in spite of all, was beyond his power. In no woman on earth could he have put perfect confidence. He regarded them as born to perpetual

Starting point is 08:17:42 pupilage. Not that their inclinations were necessarily wanton, they were simply incapable of attaining maturity, remained throughout their life imperfect beings, at the mercy of craft, ever liable to be misled by childish misconceptions. Of course he was right, he himself represented the guardian male, the wife proprietor, who from the dawn of civilization has taken abundant care that woman shall not outgrow her nonage. The bitterness of his situation lay in the fact that he had wedded a woman who irresistibly proved to him her claims as a human being. Reason and tradition contended in him to his ceaseless torment. And again he feared that Monica did not love him. Had she ever loved him? There was too much ground for suspecting that she had

Starting point is 08:18:32 yielded only to the persistence of his entreaties, with just liking enough to permit a semblance of tenderness, and glad to exchange her prospect of distasteful work for a comfortable married life. Her liking he might have fostered. During those first happy weeks assuredly he had done so, for no woman could be insensible to the passionate worship manifest in his every look, his every word. Later he took the wrong path, seeking to oppose her instincts, to reform her mind, eventually to become her lord and master. Could he not even now retrace his steps? Supposing her incapable of bowing before him, of kissing his feet, could he not be content to make her a loyal friend, a delightful companion? In that mood he hastened towards Burlington House.

Starting point is 08:19:21 Seeking Monica through the galleries, he saw her at length, sitting side by side with that man Barfoot. They were in closest colloquy. Barfoot bent towards her as if speaking in an undertone, a smile on his face. Monica looked at once pleased and troubled. The blood boiled in his veins. His first impulse was to walk straight up to Monica and bid her to follow him. But the ecstasy of jealous suffering

Starting point is 08:19:48 kept him an observer. He watched the pair until he was descried. There was no help for it. Though his brain whirled and his flesh was stabbed, he had no choice but to take the hand Barfoot offered him. Smile he could not, nor speak a word. So you have come after all?" Monica was saying to him.

Starting point is 08:20:09 He nodded. On her countenance there was obvious embarrassment, but this needed no explanation, save the history of the last day or two. Looking into her eyes, he knew not whether consciousness of wrong might be read there. How to get at the secrets of this woman's heart! Barfoot was talking, pointing at this picture and that, doing his best to smooth what he saw was an awkward situation. The gloomy husband, more like a tyrant than ever, muttered incoherent phrases.

Starting point is 08:20:39 In a minute or two, Everard freed himself and moved out of sight. Monica turned from her husband and affected interest in the pictures. They reached the end of the room before Whitterson spoke. "'How long do you want to stay here?' "'I will go whenever you like,' she answered, without looking at him. "'I have no wish to spoil your pleasure.' "'Really, I have a way of you want to stay here.' "'Really, I have a little bit of you like.'

Starting point is 08:21:03 very little pleasure in anything. Did you come to keep me in sight?" I think we will go home now, and you can come another day." Monica assented by closing her catalogue and walking on. Without a word they made the journey back to Hearn Hill. Whittison shut himself up in the library, and did not appear till dinner-time. The meal was a pretence for both of them, and as soon as they could rise from the table, they again parted. About ten o'clock, Monica was joined by her husband in the drawing-room. I have almost made up by mind, he said, standing near her, to take a serious step.

Starting point is 08:21:42 As you have always spoken with pleasure of your old home, Clevedon, suppose we give up this house and go and live there. It is for you to decide. I want to know whether you would have any objection. I shall do as you wish. No, that isn't enough. The plan I have in mind is this. I should take a good large house.

Starting point is 08:22:03 no doubt rents a low in the neighbourhood, and ask your sisters to come and live with us. I think it would be a good thing both for them and for you.' "'You can't be sure that they would agree to it. You see that Virginia prefers her lodgings to living here.' Oddly enough, this was the case. On their return from Guernsey they had invited Virginia to make a permanent home with them, and she refused. Her reasons Monica could not understand. those which she alleged, vague arguments as to its being better for a wife's relatives not to burden the husband, hardly seemed genuine. It was possible that Virginia had a distaste

Starting point is 08:22:40 for Witteson society. "'I think they would both be glad to live at Cleveland,' he urged, judging from your sister's talk. It's plain that they have quite given up the idea of the school, and Alice, you tell me, is getting dissatisfied with her work at Yatton. But I must know whether you will enter seriously into this scheme." Manika kept silence. Please answer me. Why have you thought of it? I don't think I need explain.

Starting point is 08:23:08 We have had too many unpleasant conversations, and I wish to act for the best without saying things you would misunderstand. There is no fear of my misunderstanding. You have no confidence in me, and you want to get me away into a quiet country place, where I shall be under your eyes every moment. much better to say that plainly." "'That means you would consider it going to prison.' "'How could I help? What other motive have you?'

Starting point is 08:23:36 He was prompted to make brutal declaration of authority, and so cut the knot. Monica's unanswerable argument merely angered him, but he made an effort over himself. "'Don't you think it is best that we should take some step before our happiness is irretrievably ruined?' "'I see no need for its ruin. As I have told you before, In talking like that you degrade yourself and insult me." "'I have my faults. I know them only too well.

Starting point is 08:24:04 One of them is that I cannot bear you to make friends with people who are not of my kind. I shall never be able to endure that.' "'Of course you were speaking of Mr. Barfoot.' "'Yes,' he avowed sullenly. "'It was a very unfortunate thing that I happened to come up just as he was in your company.' "'You are so very unreasonable,' exclaimed Monica tartly. What possible harm is there in Mr. Barfoot, when he meets me by chance in a public place, having a conversation with me?

Starting point is 08:24:35 I wish I knew twenty such men. Such conversation gives me a new interest in life. I have every reason to think well of Mr. Barfoot." Whittison was in anguish. "'And I,' he replied, in a voice shaken with angry feeling, feel that I have every reason to dislike and suspect him. He is not an honest man. His face tells me that.

Starting point is 08:24:57 I know his life wouldn't bear inspection. You can't possibly be as good a judge as I am in such a case. Contrast him with Bevis. No Bevis is a man one can trust. One talk with him produces a lasting, favourable impression." Monica, silent for a brief space, looked fixedly before her. Her features all but expressionless. "'Yet even with Mr. Bevis,' she said at length, "'you don't make friends.

Starting point is 08:25:24 is the fault in you which causes all this trouble. You have a sociable spirit. Your dislike of Mr. Barfoot only means that you don't know him and don't wish to, and you are completely wrong in your judgment of him. I have every reason for being sure that you are wrong." Of course you think so, in your ignorance of the world. Which you think very proper in a woman," she interposed caustically. "'Yes, I do. That kind of knowledge is harmful to a woman.' "'Then please, how is she to judge her account? acquaintances.

Starting point is 08:25:55 A married woman must accept her husband's opinion, at all events, about men." He plunged on into the ancient Quagmire. A man may know with impunity what is injurious if it enters a woman's mind. I don't believe that. I can't and won't believe it." He made a gesture of despair. We differ hopelessly. It was all very well to discuss these things when you could do so in a friendly spirit.

Starting point is 08:26:22 Now you say whatever you know will irritate. irritate me, and you say it on purpose to irritate me." "'No, indeed, I do not. But you are quite right that I find it hard to be friendly with you. Most earnestly I wish to be your friend, your true and faithful friend, but you won't let me.' "'Friend!' he cried scornfully. The woman who has become my wife ought to be something more than a friend, I should think. You have lost all love for me, and there's the misery."

Starting point is 08:26:53 Monica could not reply. The word love had grown a weariness to her upon his lips. She did not love him, could not pretend to love him. Every day the distance between them widened, and when he took her in his arm she had to struggle with a sense of shrinking, of disgust. The union was unnatural she felt herself constrained by a hateful force when he called upon her for the show of wifely tenderness. Yet how was she to utter this? The moment such a truth had passed her lips, she must leave him. To declare that no trace of love remained in her heart, and still to live with him, that was impossible. The dark foresight of a necessity of parting from him corresponded in her to those lurid visions which at times shook Whittison with a horrible temptation.

Starting point is 08:27:40 "'You don't love me!' he continued in harsh, choking tones. "'You wish to be my friend! That's how you try to compensate me for the loss of your love!' He laughed with bitterness. When you say that, Monica answered, do you ever ask yourself whether you try to make me love you? Scenes like this are ruining my health. I've come to dread your talk. I have almost forgotten the sound of your voice when it isn't either angry or complaining." Whittison walked about the room, and a deep moan escaped him. That is why I've asked you to go away from here, Monica. We must have a new home if our life is to begin anew. I have no faith in a mere change of place.

Starting point is 08:28:25 You would be the same man. If you cannot command your senseless jealousy here, you would never anywhere else. He made an effort to say something, seemed to abandon it, again tried, and spoke in a thick unnatural voice. Can you honestly repeat to me what Barfoot was saying to-day when you were on the seat together? Monica's eyes flashed. I could.

Starting point is 08:28:49 Every word. but I shall not try to do so. Not if I beseech you, Monica, to put my mind at rest. No. When I tell you that you might have heard every syllable, I have said all that I shall. It mortified him profoundly that he should have been driven to make so humiliating a request. He threw himself into a chair and hid his face, sitting thus for a long time, in the hope that Monica would be moved to compassion.

Starting point is 08:29:18 But when she rose it was only to retire for the night, and with wretchedness in her heart, because she must needs go to the same chamber in which her husband would sleep. She wished so to be alone. The poorest bed in a servant's garret would have been thrice welcome to her. Liberty to lie awake, to think without a disturbing presence, to shed tears if need be. That seemed to her a precious boon. She thought with envy of the shop-girls in Walworth Road, wished herself back there. What unspeakable folly she had committed!

Starting point is 08:29:51 And how true was everything she had heard from Roda Nun on the subject of marriage! The next day Whittison resorted to an expedient which he had once before tried in like circumstances. He wrote his wife a long letter, eight close pages, reviewing the cause of their troubles, confessing his own errors, insisting gently on those chargeable to her, and finally imploring her to cooperate with him in a sincere endeavor to restore their happiness. this he laid on the table after lunch and then left monica alone that she might read it knowing beforehand all that the letter contained monica glanced over it carelessly an answer was expected and she wrote one as briefly as possible your behaviour seems to me very weak very unmanly you make us both miserable and quite without cause i can only say as i have said before that things will never be better until you come to think of me as your free companion, not as your bondwoman. If you can't do this, you will make me wish that I had never

Starting point is 08:30:53 met to you, and in the end I am sure it won't be possible for us to go on living together." She left this note in a blank envelope on the hall table, and went out to walk for an hour. It was the end of one more acute stage in their progressive discord. By keeping it home for a fortnight, Monica soothed her husband, and obtained some repose for her own nerves. But she could no longer affect a cordial reconciliation. Caresses left her cold, and Whittison saw that his company was never so agreeable to her as solitude. When they sat together, both were reading.

Starting point is 08:31:29 Monica found more attraction in books as her life grew more unhappy. Though with reluctance Wittison had consented to a subscription at Mudes, and from the new catalogue she either chose for herself, necessarily at random, or by the advice of better-read people, such as she met at Mrs. Cosgroves. What modern teaching was to be got from these volumes her mind readily absorbed. She sought for opinions and arguments which were congenial to her mood of discontent, all but of revolt. Sometimes the perusal of a love-story embittered her lot to the last point of endurance.

Starting point is 08:32:03 Before marriage her love ideal had been very vague, elusive. It found scarcely more than negative expression, as a shrinking from the vulgar or gross desires of her companions in the shop. Now that she had a clear understanding of her own nature, the type of man corresponded to her natural sympathies also became clear. In every particular he was unlike her husband. She found a suggestion of him in books, and in actual life already, perhaps something more than a suggestion.

Starting point is 08:32:33 Whittison's jealousy, insofar as it directed itself against her longing for freedom, was fully justified. This consciousness often made her sullen when she desired to express a nobler indignation. his special prejudice led him altogether astray, and in free resistance on this point she found the relief which enabled her to bear a secret self-reproach. Her refusal to repeat the substance of Barfoot's conversation was in some degree prompted by a wish for the continuance of his groundless fears. By persevering in suspicion of Barfoot he afforded her a firm foothold in their ever-renewed quarrels.

Starting point is 08:33:09 A husband's misdirected jealousy excites in the wife derision and a sense of superiority. More often than not, it fosters an unsuspected attachment, prompt to a perverse pleasure in misleading. Monica became aware of this. In her hours of misery she now and then gave a harsh laugh, the result of thoughts not seriously entertained, but tempting the fancy to recklessness. What, she asked herself again, would be the end of it all? Ten years hence, would she have subdued her soul to a life of weary insignificance, if not

Starting point is 08:33:41 of dishonour? For it was dishonour to live with the matter. and she could not love, whether her heart cherished another image or was merely vacant, a dishonor to which innumerable women submitted, a dishonor glorified by social precept, enforced under dread penalties. But she was so young, and life abounds in unexpected changes. End of Chapter 19 Chapter 20 of the odd women. This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette

Starting point is 08:34:19 The Odd Women By George Gissing Chapter 20 The First Lie Mrs. Cosgrove was a childless widow, with sufficient means and very mixed multitude of acquaintances. In the general belief her marriage had been a happy one, when she spoke of her deceased husband

Starting point is 08:34:37 it was with respect and not seldom with affection. Yet her views on the matrimonial relation were known to be of singular audacity. She revealed them only to a small source. circle of intimates. Most of the people who frequented her house had no startling theories to maintain, and regarded their hostess as a good-natured, rather eccentric woman, who loved society, and understood how to amuse her guests. Wealth and position were rarely represented in her drawing-room. Nor, on the other hand, was bohemianism. Mrs. Cosgrove belonged by birth and marriage to the

Starting point is 08:35:09 stayed middle class, and it seemed as if she made it her object to provide with social entertainment the kind of person who, in an ordinary way, would enjoy very little of it. Lonely and impecunious girls or women were frequently about her. She tried to keep them in good spirits, tried to marry them if marriage seemed possible, and, it was whispered, used a good deal of her income for the practical benefit of those who needed assistance. A sprinkling of maidens who were neither lonely nor impecunious served to attract young men, generally strugglers in some profession or other, on the lookout for a wife. Intercourse went on with a minimum of formalities.

Starting point is 08:35:46 Chaperonage, save for that represented by the hostess herself, was as often as not dispensed with. "'We want to get rid of a lot of sham propriety,' so she urged to her closer friends. "'Girls must learn to trust themselves and look out for dangers. If a girl can only be kept straight by incessant watchfulness, why let her go where she will, and learn by experience? In fact, I want to see experience substituted for precept." Between this lady and Miss Barfoot there were considerable divergences of opinion, yet they agreed on a sufficient number of points to like each other very well.

Starting point is 08:36:23 Occasionally one of Mrs. Cosgrove's protégés passed into Miss Barfoot's hands, abandoning the thought of matrimony for study in Great Portland Street. Rhoda Nun also had a liking for Mrs. Cosgrove, though she made no secret of her opinion that Mrs. Cosgrove's influence was on the whole decidedly harmful. That house, she once said to Miss Barfoot, is nothing more than a matrimonial agency. But so is every house where many people are entertained. Not in the same way. Mrs. Cosgrove was speaking to me of some girl who was just accepted an offer of marriage. I don't think they'll suit each other, she said, but there's no harm

Starting point is 08:36:59 in trying." Miss Barfoot could not restrain a laugh. Who knows? Perhaps she is right in that view of things. After all you know it's it's only putting into plain words what everybody thinks on all but every such occasion." The first part of her remark, yes," said Rhoda caustically. But as for the no harm in trying—well, let us ask the wife's opinion in a year's time. Midway in the London season on a Sunday afternoon, about a score of visitors were assembled in Mrs. Corsgrove's drawing-rooms. There were two of them, with a landing between. As usual,

Starting point is 08:37:34 someone sat at the piano, but a hum of talk went on as undercurrent to the music. Downstairs in the library, half a dozen people found the quietness they preferred, and among these was Mrs. Whittison. She had an album of portraits on her lap. Whilst turning them over, she listened to a chat going on between the sprightly Mr. Bevis, and a young married woman who had laughed ceaselessly at his jokes. It was only a few minutes since she had come down from the drawing-room. Presently her eyes encountered a glance from Bevis, and at once he stepped over to a seat beside

Starting point is 08:38:05 her. Your sisters are not here today," she said. No, they have guests of their own. And when are you coming to see them again?" Before long, I hope." Bevis looked away and seemed to reflect. Do come next Saturday, could you? I had better not promise.

Starting point is 08:38:24 Do try. And—he lowered his voice. Come alone. Forgive me for saying that. The girls are rather afraid of Mr. Whittison. That's the truth. They would so like a free gossip with you. Let me tell them to expect to you about half-past three or four.

Starting point is 08:38:40 They will rise up and call me blessed." Laughing, Monica at length agreed to come if circumstances were favorable. Her talk with Bevis continued for a long time, until people had begun to leave. Some other acquaintance then claimed her, but she was now dull and monosyllabic, as if conversation had exhausted her energies. At six o'clock she stole away unobserved, and went home. Madison had resigned himself, in appearance at all events, to these absences. It was several weeks since he had accompanied his wife to call upon anyone. A sluggishness

Starting point is 08:39:14 was creeping over him, strengthening his disinclination for society. The futile endeavor to act with decision, to carry Monica away into Somerset, resulted, as futile endeavors of that kind or wont to do, in increased feebleness of the will. He was less capable than ever of exhorting the authority which he still believed himself to keep. for the last resort. Occasionally some days went by without his leaving the house. Instead of the one daily newspaper he'd been used to take, he now received three. After breakfast he sometimes spent a couple of hours over the times, and the evening papers often occupied him from dinner to bedtime. Monica noticed, with a painful conflict of emotions, that his hair

Starting point is 08:39:56 had begun to lose its uniform color, and to show streaks that matched with his grizzled beard. Was she responsible for this? on the saturday when she was to visit the bevis's she feared lest he should propose to go with her she wished even to avoid the necessity of telling him where she was going as she rose from luncheon whittison glanced at her i've ordered the trap monica will you come for a drive i have promised to go into town i'm very sorry it doesn't matter this was his latest mode of appealing to her with an air of pained resignation For a day or two I haven't felt at all well," he answered gloomily. I thought a drive might do me good. "'Certainly. I hope it will. When would you like to have dinner?' "'I never care to alter the hours. Of course I shall be back at the usual time. Shall you be?'

Starting point is 08:40:49 "'Oh, yes, long before dinner.' So she got away without any explanation. At a quarter to four she reached the block of flats in which the Bevis's and Everard Barfoot resided. With a fluttering of the heart, she went very quietly upstairs, as if anxious that her footsteps should not be heard. Her knock at the door was timid. Bevis in person opened to her. Delighted! I thought it might be! She entered and walked into the first room, where she had been once before. But to her surprise it was vacant. She looked round and saw Bevis's countenance gleaming with satisfaction. My sisters will be here in a few minutes," he said.

Starting point is 08:41:30 A few minutes at most. Will you take this chair, Mrs. Whittison? How delighted I am that you were able to come!" So perfectly natural was his manner, that Monica, after the first moment of consternation, tried to forget that there was anything irregular in her presence here under these circumstances. As regards social propriety, a flat differs in many respects from a house. In an ordinary drawing-room it could scarcely have mattered if Bevis entertained her for a short space until his sister's arrival, but in this little set of rooms it was doubtfully

Starting point is 08:42:01 permissible for her to sit tete-a-tete with a young man under any excuse. And the fact of his opening the front door himself seemed to suggest that not even a servant was in the flat. A tremor grew upon her as she talked, due in part to the consciousness that she was glad to be thus alone with Bevis. A place like this must seem to you very unhomelike, he was saying, as he lounged on a low chair not very far from her. The girls didn't like it at all at first. I suppose it's a retrograde step in civilisation.

Starting point is 08:42:32 Servants are decidedly of that opinion. We have a great difficulty in getting them to stay here. The reason seems to me that they miss the congenial gossip of the area door. At this moment we are without a domestic. I found she compensated herself for a disadvantage's by stealing my tobacco and cigars. She went to work with such a lack of discretion, abstracting a half-pound of honey-dew at a time, that I couldn't find any sympathy for her. Moreover, when charged with delinquency, she became abusive, so very abusive that we were

Starting point is 08:43:00 obliged to insist upon her immediate departure." "'Do you think she smoked?' asked Monica laughingly. "'We have debated that point with much interest. She was a person of advanced ideas, as you see, practically a communist. But I doubt whether honey-dew had any charms for her personally. It seems more probable that some milkman or baker's assistant, or even metropolitan policeman, benefited by her communism?" Indifferent to the progress of time, Bevis talked on with his usual jocoseness, now and then shaking his tawny hair in a fit of laughter the most contagious.

Starting point is 08:43:35 "'But I have something to tell you,' he said at length more seriously. "'I am going to leave England. They want me to live at Bordeaux for a tune, two or three years, perhaps. It's a great bore, but I shall have to go. I am not my own master.' "'Then your sisters will go to Guernsey?' Yes, I dare say I shall leave about the end of July." He became silent, looking at Monica with humorous sadness.

Starting point is 08:44:01 "'Do you think your sisters will soon be here, Mr. Bevis?' Monica asked, with a glance round the room. "'I think so. Do you know I did a very silly thing? I wanted your visit, if you came, to be a surprise for them. And so, in fact, I said nothing about it. When I got here from business a little before three they were just going out. I asked them if they were sure they would be back in less than an hour. They were quite sure, not a doubt of it.

Starting point is 08:44:26 I do hope they haven't altered their mind and gone to call somewhere. But Mrs. Whittison, I am going to make you a cup of tea, with my own fair hands, as the novelists say." Monica begged that he would not trouble. Under the circumstances she had better not stay. She would come again very soon. "'No, I can't. I can't let you go,' Bevice exclaimed, softening his gay tone as he stood before her. How shall I entreat you? If you knew what an unforgettable delight it will be to make you a cup of tea,

Starting point is 08:44:55 I shall think of it at Bordeaux every Saturday." She had risen, but exhibited no immutable resolve. "'I really must go, Mr. Bavis. Don't drive me to despair. I am capable of turning my poor sisters out of house and home—flat and home, I mean, in anger at their delay. On their account, in pity for their youth, do stay, Mrs. Whitterson. Besides, I have a new song that I want you to hear.

Starting point is 08:45:19 Words and music of my own. One little quarter of an hour. I know the girls will be here directly." His will and her inclination prevailed. Monica sat down again, and Bevis disappeared to make the tea. Water must have been already boiling, for in less than five minutes the young man returned with a tray on which all the necessaries were neatly arranged. With Mary Ahmed she waited upon his guest.

Starting point is 08:45:44 Monica's cheeks were warm. After the vain attempt to release herself from what was now distinctly, a compromising situation, she sat down in an easier attitude than before, as though resolved to enjoy her liberty whilst she might. There was a suspicion in her mind that Bevis had arranged this interview. She doubted the truth of his explanation. And indeed she hoped his sisters would not return until after her departure. It would be very embarrassing to meet them.

Starting point is 08:46:12 Whilst talking and listening, she silently defended herself against the charge of impropriety. What wrong was she committing? matter that they were alone. Their talk was precisely what it might have been in other people's presence. And Bebis, such a frank, good-hearted fellow, could not by any possibility fail in respect to her. The objections were all cant, and cant of the worst kind. She would not be a slave of such ignoble prejudices." "'You haven't made Mr. Barfoot's acquaintance yet?' she asked. "'No, I haven't. There seems to have been no opportunity. Did you seriously wish me

Starting point is 08:46:47 to know him?' Oh, I had no wish in the matter at all. You like Mr. Barfoot? I think him very pleasant. How delightful to be praised by you, Mrs. Whittison! Now if any one speaks to you about me, when I have left England, will you find some nice word? Don't think me foolish.

Starting point is 08:47:04 I do so desire the good opinion of my friends. To know that you spoke of me as you did for Mr. Barfoot would give me a whole day of happiness. How enviable! To be so easily made happy! Now let me sing you this song of mine. It isn't very good. I haven't composed for years.

Starting point is 08:47:21 But— He sat down and rattled over the keys. Monica was expecting a lively air and spirited words, as in the song she had heard at Guernsey. But this composition told of sadness and longing and the burden of a lonely heart. She thought it very beautiful, very touching. Bevis looked round to see the effect it produced upon her, and she could not meet his eyes. Quite a new sort of thing for me, Mrs. Whitterson. Does it strike you as so very bad?" No, not at all."

Starting point is 08:47:52 But you can't honestly praise it." He sighed in dejection. "'I meant to give you a copy. I made this one specially for you. And, if you will forgive me, I have taken the liberty of dedicating it to you. Songwriters do that, you know. Of course it is altogether unworthy of your acceptance.' "'No, no, indeed. I am very grateful to you, Mr. Bevis. Do give it to me, as you meant to.' You will have it!" he cried delightedly. Now for a triumphal march!

Starting point is 08:48:21 Whilst he played, with look corresponding to the exultant strain, Monica rose from her chair. She stood with eyes downcast and lips pressed together, when the last chord had sounded. Now I must say good-bye, Mr. Bevis. I am so sorry your sisters haven't come. So am I, and yet I am not. I have enjoyed the happiest half-hour of my life.

Starting point is 08:48:44 Will you give me the piece of music? sick. Let me roll it up. There it won't be very awkward to carry. But of course I shall see you again before the end of July. You will come some other afternoon." If Miss Bevis will let me know and she is quite sure. Yes, she shall.

Starting point is 08:48:59 Do you know, I don't think I shall say a word about what has happened this afternoon. Will you allow me to keep silence about your call, Mrs. Whittison? They would be so annoyed, and really it was a silly thing not to tell them." Monica gave no verbal reply. She looked towards the door. before. Bevis stepped forward and held it open. "'Good-bye, then. You know what I told you about my tendency to low spirits. I'm going to have a terrible turn. Down, down, down!' She laughed and offered her hand. He held it very lightly,

Starting point is 08:49:31 looking at her with his blue eyes, which indeed expressed a profound melancholy. "'Thank you,' he murmured. "'Thank you for your great kindness.' And thereupon he opened the front door for her. Without another look, Monica went quickly down the stairs. She appreciated his motive for not accompanying her to the exit. Before entering the house, she managed to conceal the sheet of music which she was carrying. But happily, Whittison was still absent. Half an hour passed, half an hour of brooding and reverie, before she heard his footstep ascending the stairs. On the landing she met him with a

Starting point is 08:50:09 pleasant smile. "'Have you enjoyed your drive?' "'Pretty well.' "'And do you feel better?' Not much, dear, but it isn't worth talking about." Later he inquired where she had been. I had an appointment with Millie Vesper. The first falsehood she had ever told him, and yet uttered with such perfect assumption of sincerity as would have deceived the acutest observer.

Starting point is 08:50:34 He nodded, discontented as usual, but entertaining no doubt. And from that moment she hated him. If he had plied her with interrogations, if he had seemed to To suspect anything, the burden of untruth would have been more endurable. His simple acceptance of her word was the sternest rebuke she could have received. She despised herself, and hated him for the degradation which resulted from his lordship over her. End of Chapter twenty.

Starting point is 08:51:08 Chapter twenty-one of the odd women. This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette. The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter XXI Towards the Decisive Mary Barfoot had never suffered from lack of interest in life. Many a vivid moment dwelt in her memory. Joys and sorrows, personal or of larger scope, affected her the more deeply because of that ruling intelligence which enabled her to transmute them into principles. No longer anticipating

Starting point is 08:51:45 or desiring any great change in her own environment, in the modes and motives of her activity, she found it a sufficient happiness to watch, and, when possible to direct, the tendency of younger lives. So kindly had nature tempered her disposition that already she had been able to outlive those fervors of instinct which often make the middle life of an unwedded woman one long repining. But her womanly sympathies remained. And at present there was going forward under her own roof within her daily observation, a comedy, a drama, which had power to excite all her disinterested emotions. It had been in progress for twelve months, and now, unless she was strangely mistaken, the denouement drew very near. For all her self-study, her unflinching recognition

Starting point is 08:52:39 of physical and psychical facts which the average woman blinks over, Mary deceived herself as to the date of that final triumph which permitted her to observe Rhoda nun with perfect equanimity. Her outbreak of angry feeling on the occasion of Bella Royston's death meant something more than she would acknowledge before the inquisition of her own mind. It was just then that she had become aware of Rhoda's changing attitude towards Everard Barfoot. Triples, such as only a woman would detect, had conceded. convinced her that Everard's interest in Rhoda was awakening a serious response. And this discovery, though it could not surprise her, caused an obscure pang, which she attributed

Starting point is 08:53:21 to impersonal regret, to mere natural misgiving. For some day she thought of Rhoda in an ironic, half-mocking spirit. Then came Bella's suicide, and the conversation in which Rhoda exhibited a seeming heartlessness, the result undoubtedly of grave emotional disturbance. To her own astonishment, Mary was overcome with an impulse of wrathful hostility, and spoke words which she regretted as soon as they had passed her lips. Poor Bella had very little to do with this moment of discord between two women who sincerely liked and admired each other. She only offered the occasion for an outburst of secret feeling, which probably could not

Starting point is 08:54:00 have been avoided. Mary Barfoot had loved her cousin Everard. It began when he was one and twenty. She, so much older, had never allowed Everard or anyone else to suspect her passion, which made her for two or three years more unhappy than she had ever been, or was ever to be when her once strong reason had prevailed. The scandal of Amy Drake, happening long after, revived her misery, which now took the form of truly feminine intolerance.

Starting point is 08:54:28 She tried to believe that Everard was henceforth of less than no account to her, that she detested him for his vices. Amy Drake, however, she detested much more. When her friendship with Rhoda Nunn had progressed to intimacy, she could not refrain from speaking of her cousin Everard, absent at the ends of the earth, and perchance lost to her sight forever. Her mention of him was severe, yet of a severity so obviously blended with other feeling, that Rhoda could not but surmise the truth. Sentimental confession never entered Miss Barfoot's mind. She had conquered her desires.

Starting point is 08:55:04 and was by no means inclined to make herself ridiculous. Rhoda, none, of all women, seemed the least likely to make remarks, or put questions, such as would endanger a betrayal of the buried past. Yet, at a later time, when pressing the inquiry whether Rhoda had ever been in love, Mary did not scruple to suggest that her own knowledge in that direction was complete. She did it in lightness of heart, secure under the protection of her forty years. Rota, of course, understood her as referring to Everard. So, the quarrel was one of jealousy.

Starting point is 08:55:39 But no sooner had it taken place when Mary Barfoot experienced a shame, a distress, which in truth signified the completion of self-conquest. She thought herself ashamed of being angry, where anger was uncalled for. In reality, she chastised herself for the last revival of a conflict practically over and done with so many years ago. And on this very account, precisely because she was deceiving herself as to her state of mind, she prolonged the painful situation. She said to herself that Rhoda had behaved so wrongly that displeasure was justified,

Starting point is 08:56:13 that to make up the quarrel that once would be unwise, for Miss Nunn needed a little discipline. This insistence upon the side issue helped her to disregard the main one. And when at length she offered Rhoda the kiss of reconcilment, that also signified something other than was professed. It meant a hope that Rhoda might know the happiness which to her friend had been denied. Everard's announcement of his passion for Miss Nunn seemed to marry a well-calculated piece of boldness. If he seriously sought Rhoda for his wife, this frank avowal of the desire before a third person might remove some of the peculiar difficulties of the case.

Starting point is 08:56:52 Whether willing or not to be wooed, Rhoda, in mere consistency with her pronounced opinions, must needs maintain a scornful silence on the subject of Everard's love-making. By assailing this proud reserve, this dignity which perchance had begun to burden its supporter, Everard made possible, if not inevitable, a discussion of his suit between the two women. She who talks of her lover will be led to think of him. Miss Barfoot knew not whether to hope for the marriage of this strange pair. She was distrustful of her cousin, found it hard to imagine him a loyal husband and could not be sure whether Rhoda's qualities were such as would ultimately retain or repel him. She inclined to think this wooing a mere caprice.

Starting point is 08:57:36 But Rhoda gave ear to him, of that there could be little doubt, and since his inheritance of ample means, the affair began to have a new aspect. That Everard persevered, though the world of women was now open to him, for on a moderate computation, any man with Barfoot's personal advantages, and armed with fifteen hundred a year, may choose among five, fifty possible maidens, seemed to argue that he was really in love. But what it would cost Rhoda to appear before her friends in this character of a bride? What a humbling of her glory! Was she capable of the love which defies all humiliation? Or loving ardently, would she renounce

Starting point is 08:58:17 a desired happiness from dread of female smiles and whispers? Or would it be her sufficient satisfaction to reject a wealthy suitor, and thus pose more grandly than ever before the circle who saw in her an example of woman's independence. Powerful was the incitement to curiosity in a situation which, however it ended, would afford such matter for emotional hypothesis. They did not talk of Everard. Whether Rhoda replied to his letters from abroad, Miss Barfoot had no means of ascertaining. But after his return he had a very cold reception.

Starting point is 08:58:52 Do, perhaps, to some audacity he had allowed himself in his correspondence. Rhoda again avoided meeting with him, and, as Miss Barfoot noticed, threw herself with increased energy into all her old pursuits. "'What about your holiday this year?' Mary asked one evening in June. "'Shall you go first, or shall I?' "'Please make whatever arrangements you like.' Miss Barfoot had a reason for wishing to postpone her holiday until late in August. She said so, and proposed that Rodea should take any three weeks she liked prior to that.

Starting point is 08:59:27 Miss Vesper, she added, can manage your room very well. We shall be much more at ease in that respect than last year. Yes, Miss Vesper is getting to be very useful and trustworthy. Rhoda mused when she had made this remark. Do you know, she asked presently, whether she sees much of Mrs. Whitterson. I have no idea. They decided that Rhoda should go away at the close of July. Where was her holiday to be spent? Miss Barfoot suggested the lake country.

Starting point is 09:00:00 I was thinking of it myself, said Rhoda. I should like to have some sea-bathing, though. A week by the shore, and then the rest of the time spent in vagabondage among the mountains, would suit me very well. Mrs. Cosgrove is at home in Cumberland. I must ask her advice. This was done, and there resulted a scheme which seemed to excite Rhoda with joyous anticipation. On the coast of Cumberland, a few miles south of St. B's, is a little place

Starting point is 09:00:27 called C-scale, unknown to the ordinary tourist, but with a good hotel and a few scattered houses where lodgings can be obtained. Not far away rise the mountain barriers of Lakeland, Wastdale clearly discernible. At C-scale, then, Rhoda would spend her first week, the quiet shore with its fine stretch of sand affording her just the retreat that she desired. There are one of two bathing machines, Mrs. Cosgrove says, but I hope to avoid such abominations. How delicious it was in one's childhood, when one ran into the sea naked. I will enjoy that sensation once more, if I have to get up at three in the morning. About this time, Barfoot made one of his evening crawls. He had no hope of seeing Rhoda, and was agreeably surprised by her presence

Starting point is 09:01:13 in the drawing-room. Just as happened a year ago, the subject of Miss Barfoot making a direct inquiry. With lively interest, Mary waited for the reply, and was careful not to smile when Rhoda made known her intentions. "'Have you planned a route after your stay at sea-scale?' Barfoot asked. "'No, I shall do that when I am there.' Whether or not he intended a contrast to these homely projects, Barfoot presently began to talk of travel on a grander scale. When he next left England, he should go by the Orient Express right away to Constantinople.

Starting point is 09:01:47 His cousin asked questions about the Orient Express, and he supplied her with details very exciting to the imagination of anyone who longs to see the kingdoms of the earth, as undoubtedly Rhoda did. The very name, Orient Express, has a certain sublimity, such as attaches, more or less, to all the familiar nomenclature of world transits. He talked himself into fervor and kept a watch on Rhoda's countenance, as also did Miss Barfoot. Rota tried to appear unaffected, but her coldness betrayed its insincerity. The next day, when work at Great Portland Street was just finished, she fell into conversation with Mildred Vesper.

Starting point is 09:02:29 Miss Barfoot had an engagement to dine out that evening, and Roda ended by inviting Millie to come home with her to Chelsea. To Millie, this was a great honour. She hesitated because of her very plain dress, but easily allowed herself to be persuaded when she saw that Miss Nun really desired her company. before dinner they had a walk in battersea park rhoda had never been so frank and friendly she induced the quiet unpretending girl to talk of her early days her schools her family remarkable was milly's quiet contentedness not long ago she had received an increase of payment from miss barfoot and one would have judged that scarcely a wish now troubled her unless it were that she might see her scattered brothers and sisters all of whom happily were doing pretty well in the struggle for existence "'You must feel rather lonely in your lodging sometimes,' said Rhoda.

Starting point is 09:03:20 "'Very rarely. In future I shall have music in the evening. Our best room has been let to a young man who has a violin, and he plays the blue-bells of Scotland—not badly.' Rhoda did not miss the humorous intention, veiled as usual under a manner of extreme sedateness. "'Does Mrs. Whitterson come to see you?' "'Not often. She came a few days ago.' you go to her house sometimes i haven't been there for several months at first i used to go rather frequently but it's a long way to this subject rhoda returned after dinner when they were cozily settled in the drawing-room mrs whitterson comes here now and then and we are always very glad to see her but i can't help thinking she looks rather unhappy i'm afraid she does assented the other gravely you and i were both at her wedding

Starting point is 09:04:14 It wasn't very cheerful, was it? I had a disagreeable sense of bad omens all the time. Do you think she is sorry? I'm really afraid she is. Rhoda observed the look that accompanied this admission. Foolish girl. Why couldn't she stay with us and keep her liberty? She doesn't seem to have made any new friends.

Starting point is 09:04:34 Has she spoken to you of any? Only of people she is met here. Roda yielded, or seemed to yield, to an impulse of frankness. Bending slightly forward, with an anxious expression, she said in confidential tones, "'Can you help to put my mind at rest about Monica? You saw her a week ago. Did she say anything, or give any sign, that might make one really uneasy on her account?' There was a struggle in Millie before she answered. Rhoda added, "'Perhaps you'd rather not?' Yes, I had rather tell you. She said a good many strange things, and I have been uneasy about her. I wish I could speak to some one. How strange that I should be urged to ask you about this, said Rhoda, her eyes peculiarly bright and keen, fixed on the girl's face.

Starting point is 09:05:25 The poor thing is very miserable, I am sure. Her husband seems to leave her entirely to herself. Millie looked surprised. A moniker made quite the opposite complaint to me. She said, that she was a prisoner." "'That's very odd. She certainly goes about a good deal, and alone.' "'I didn't know that,' said Mellie. "'She has very often talked to me about a woman's right to the same freedom as a man, and I always understood that Mr. Whitterson objected to her going anywhere without him,

Starting point is 09:05:55 except to just call here, or at my lodgings. Do you think she has any acquaintance that he dislikes?' The direct answer was delayed, but it came at length. There is some one. She hasn't told me who it is. In plain words, Mr. Whittison thinks he has cause for jealousy. Yes, I understand Monica to mean that. Rhoda's face had grown very dark. She moved her hands nervously. But you don't think that she could deceive him?

Starting point is 09:06:27 Oh, I can't think that, replied Miss Vesper with much earnestness. But what I couldn't help fearing after I saw her last was that She might be almost tempted to leave her husband. She spoke so much of freedom, and of a woman's right to release herself if she found her marriage was a mistake. I am so grateful to you for telling me all this. We must try to help her. Of course, I will make no mention of you, Miss Vesper. Then you are really under the impression that there's someone else she—

Starting point is 09:06:57 prefers to her husband." "'I can't help thinking that there is,' admitted the other very solemnly. I was so sorry for her, and felt so powerless. She cried a little. All I could do was to entreat her not to behave rashly. I thought her sister ought to know. Oh, Miss Madden is useless. Monica cannot look to her for advice or support.

Starting point is 09:07:23 After this conversation rhoda past a very unquiet night, and gloom appeared in her countenance for the next few days. She wished to have a private interview with Monica, but doubted whether it would in any degree serve her purpose, that of discovering whether certain suspicion she entertained had actual ground. Confidence between her and Mrs. Whittison had never existed, and in the present state of things she could not hope to probe Monica's secret feelings. Whilst she still brooded over the difficulty there came a letter from her from Everard Barfoot. He wrote formally, it had occurred to him that he might be of some slight

Starting point is 09:08:00 service, in view of her approaching holiday, if he looked through the guide-books, and jotted down the outline of such a walking tour as she had in mind. This he had done, and the results were written out on an enclosed sheet of paper. Roda allowed a day to intervene, then sent a reply. She thanked Mr. Barfoot sincerely for the trouble he had so kindly taken. "'I see you limit me to ten miles a day. In such scenery, of course, one doesn't hurry on, but I can't have informing you that twenty miles wouldn't allow me. I think it very like that I shall follow your itinerary, after my week of bathing and idling.

Starting point is 09:08:36 I leave on Monday week." Barfoot did not call again. Every evening she sat in expectation of his coming. Twice Miss Barfoot was away until a late hour, and on those occasions after dinner, Broda sat in complete idleness, her face declaring the troubled nature of her thoughts. On the Sunday before her departure,

Starting point is 09:08:56 she took a sudden resolve and went to call upon Monica at Hearn Hill. Mrs. Whittison, she learned from the servant, had left home about an hour since. Is Mr. Whittison at home? Yes, he was. And Rhoda waited for some time in the drawing-room until he made his appearance. Of late, Wittison had grown so careless in the matter of toilet that an unexpected visit obliged him to hurry through a change of apparel before he could present himself. Looking upon him for the first time for several months, Rota saw the misery was undermining the man's health. Words could not have declared his trouble more plainly than the haggard

Starting point is 09:09:34 features, and stiff, depressed, self-conscious manner. He fixed his sunken eyes upon the visitor, and smiled, as was plain, only for civility's sake. Roda did her best to seem at ease. She explained, standing, for he forgot to ask her to be seated, that she was going away on the morrow, and had hoped to see Mrs. Whittison. Who she was told has not been very well of late. "'No, she is not in very good health,' said Whittison vaguely. "'She has gone this afternoon to Mrs. Cosgroves. I think you know her.'

Starting point is 09:10:07 Less encouragement to remain could not have been offered, but Rhoda conceived a hope of hearing something significant if she persevered in conversation. The awkwardness of doing so was indifferent to her. "'Shall you be leaving town shortly, Mr. Whittison?' "'We are not quite sure.' But pray sit down, Miss Nun. You haven't seen my wife lately.'

Starting point is 09:10:28 He took a chair, and rested his hands upon his knees, gazing at the visitor's skirt. Mrs. Whittison hasn't been to see us for more than a month, if I remember rightly. His look expressed both surprise and doubt. A month? But I thought—I had an idea that she went only a few days ago. In the daytime? To Great Portland Street, I mean. to hear a lecture or something of that kind by Miss Barfoot."

Starting point is 09:10:57 Rhoda kept silence for a moment. Then she replied hastily, "'Oh, yes, very likely. I wasn't there that afternoon.' "'I see. That would explain.' He seemed relieved, but only for the instant. Then his eyes glanced hither and thither with painful restlessness.

Starting point is 09:11:16 Rhoda observed him closely. After fidgeting with his feet, he suddenly took a stiff position, and said in a louder voice. "'We are going to leave London altogether. I have decided to take a house at my wife's native place, Clevedon. Her sisters will come and live with us.' "'That is a recent decision, Mr. Whittison.' "'I have thought about it for some time.

Starting point is 09:11:39 London doesn't really suit Monica's health. I'm sure it doesn't. She will be much better in the country.' "'Yes, I think that very likely.' "'As you say that you have noticed her changed looks, I shall lose no time in getting away.' He made a great show of determined energy. A few weeks.

Starting point is 09:11:58 We will go down to Cleveland at once and find a house. Yes, we will go to-morrow. Or the day after. Miss Madden also is very far from well. I wish I hadn't delayed so long. You are doing very wisely, I think. I had meant to suggest something of this kind to Mrs. Whittison. Perhaps if I went at once to Mrs. Cosgroves,

Starting point is 09:12:18 I might be fortunate enough to find her there still.' "'You might. Did I understand you to say that you go away to-morrow, for three weeks? Ah, then we may be getting ready to move when you come back.' The change that had come over him was remarkable. He could not keep his seat, and began to pace the end of the room. Seeing no possibility of prolonging the talk for her own purposes, Rhoda accepted this dismissal, and with the briefest leave-taking went her way to Mrs. Cosgroves.

Starting point is 09:12:48 she was deeply agitated monica had not attended that lecture of miss barfoot's and so it was evident had purposely deceived her husband to what end where were those hours spent mildred vespers report supplied grounds for sombre conjecture and the incident at sloane square station the recollection of monica and barfoot absorbed in talk seemed to have a possible significance which fired rhoda with resentment her arrival at mrs crawsgroves was too late monica had been there said the hostess but had left nearly half an hour ago rhoda's instant desire was to go on to bayswater and somehow keep watch near the flats where barfoot lived monica might be there her coming forth from the building might be detected But the difficulty of the understanding, and still more a dread of being seen hovering about that quarter, checked her purpose as soon as it was formed. She returned home, and for an hour or two kept in solitude. "'What has happened?' asked Miss Barfoot when they at length met. "'Happened? Nothing that I know of.' "'You look very strange. Your imagination. I've been packing. Perhaps it's from stooping over the trunk.' This by no means satisfied Mary, who felt that things mysterious were going on about her.

Starting point is 09:14:09 But she could only wait, repeating to herself that the grand de Nouvement decidedly was not far off. At nine o'clock sounded the visitor's bell. If, as she thought likely, the caller was Everard, Miss Barfoot decided that she would disregard everything but the dramatic pressure of the moment, and leave those two alone together for half an hour. Everard it was. He entered the drawing-room with an unusual air of gaiety.

Starting point is 09:14:33 I have been in the country all day, were his first words, and he went on to talk of trivial things, the doings of a Cockney excursion party that had come under his notice. In a few minutes Mary made an excuse for absenting herself. When she was gone, Rhoda looked steadily at Barfoot and asked, "'Have you really been out of town?' "'Why should you doubt it?' "'As I told you.' She averted her look.

Starting point is 09:15:00 After examining her curiously, Everard came and stood up. before her. "'I want to ask your leave to meet you somewhere during these next three weeks, at any point on your route. We could have a daze ramble together, and then—' Say good-bye. "'The lake country is free to you, Mr. Barfoot.' "'But I mustn't miss you. You will leave Seaskell to-morrow week. At present I think so, but I can't restrict myself by any agreement. Holiday must be a time of liberty.' They looked at each other. She, with a careless which was all but defiance, he with a significant smile.

Starting point is 09:15:38 "'Tomorrow week, then, perhaps we may meet again?' Rhoda made no reply, beyond the movement of her eyebrows, as if to express indifference. "'I won't stay any longer this evening. A pleasant journey to you.' He shook hands and left the room. In the hall Miss Barfoot came to meet him. They exchanged a few words, unimportant and without reference to what had passed between him and Rhoda. Nor did Rota speak of the matter when joined by her friend. She retired early, having settled all the arrangements for her departure by the ten o'clock express from Euston next morning. Her luggage was to consist of one trunk and a wallet with a strap, which would serve the purposes

Starting point is 09:16:18 of a man's knapsack. Save the indispensable umbrella she carried no impeding trifles. A new costume, suitable for shore and mountain, was packed away in the trunk. Miss Barfoot had judged of its effect and was of opinion that it became the wearer admirably. But Rhoda, having adjusted everything that she was going to take with her, still had an occupation which kept her up for several hours. From a locked drawer she brought forth packets of letters, the storage of many years, and out of these carefully selected perhaps a tithe, which she bound together and deposited in a box,

Starting point is 09:16:54 the remainder she burnt in the empty fireplace. Moreover she collected from about the room a number of little objects, ornaments and things of use, which also found a place in the same big box. All her personal property which had any value for her, except books, was finally under lock and key, and in portable repositories. But still she kept moving, as if in search of trifles that might have escaped her notice. Silently in her soft slippers, she strayed hither and thither, till the short summer night had all but given place to dawn, and when at length weariness compelled her to go to bed, she was not able to sleep. Nor did Mary Barfoot enjoy

Starting point is 09:17:35 much sleep that night. She lay thinking, and forecasting strange possibilities. On Monday evening, returned from Great Portland Street, the first thing she did was to visit Rhoda's chamber. The ashes of burnt paper had been cleared away, but a glance informed her of the needless and unprecedented care with which Miss Nunn had collected and packed most of the things that belonged to her. Again, Mary had a troubled night. End of Chapter 21. Chapter 22 of the Odd Women.

Starting point is 09:18:13 This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette. The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 22. Honor in difficulties. At Mrs. Cosgroves, this Sunday afternoon, Monica had eyes and thoughts for one person only. Her coming at all was practically an appointment to meet Bevis, whom she had seen twice since her

Starting point is 09:18:40 visit to the flat. A day or two after that occasion, she received a call from the Bevis girls, who told her of their brothers approaching departure for Bordeaux, and thereupon she invited the trio to dine with her. A fortnight subsequently to the dinner, she had a chance encounter with Bevis in Oxford Street. Constraint of business did not allow him to walk beside her for more than a minute or two, but they spoke of Mrs. Cosgroves on the following Sunday, and there accordingly found each other. Tremor of self-consciousness kept Monica in dread of being watched and suspected. Few people were present to-day, and after exchanging formal words with Bevis, she moved away to talk with the hostess. Not till half an hour had passed, did she venture to

Starting point is 09:19:26 obey the glances which her all-but-avowed lover cast towards her in conversation. He was so much at ease, so like what she had always known him, that Monaga asked herself whether she had not mistaken the meaning of his homage. One moment she hoped it might be so. The next she longed for some sign of passionate devotion, and thought with anguish of the day, now so near, when he would be gone forever. This, she ardently believed, was the man who should have been her husband. Him she could love with heart and soul, could make his will her absolute law, could

Starting point is 09:20:00 live on his smiles, could devote herself to his interests. The independent she had been struggling to assert ever since her marriage meant only freedom to love. If she had understood herself as she now did, her life would never have been thus cast into bondage. "'The girls,' Bevis was saying, "'leave on Thursday. The rest of the week I shall be alone. On Monday the furniture will be stowed away at the Pentechnicon, and on Tuesday, off I go.' A casual listener could have supposed that the prospect pleased him. Monica, with a fixed smile, looked at the other groups conversing in the room. No one was paying any attention to her.

Starting point is 09:20:40 In the same moment she heard a murmur from her companion's lips. He was speaking still, but in a voice only just audible. Come on Friday afternoon about four o'clock. Her heart began to throb painfully, and she knew that a treacherous color had risen to her cheeks. Do come, once more, for the last time. It shall be just as before, just as before. An hour's talk, and we will say good-bye to each other." She was powerless to breathe a word.

Starting point is 09:21:14 Bevis, noticing that Mrs. Carsgrove had thrown a look in their direction, suddenly laughed, as if at some jest between them, and resumed his lively strain of talk. Monica also laughed. An interval of make-believe, and again the soft murmur fell upon her ear. I shall expect you. I know you won't refuse me this one lost kindness. Someday, his voice was all but extinguished.

Starting point is 09:21:41 Someday. Who knows? Dreadful hope struck through her. A stranger's eyes turned their way, and again she laughed. On Friday, at four, I shall expect you. She rose, looked for an instant about the room, then offered him her hand, uttering some commonplace word of leave-taking. Their eyes did not meet.

Starting point is 09:22:05 She went up to Mrs. Cosgrove, and as soon as possible left the house. Whittison met her as she crossed the threshold of home. His face told her that something extraordinary had happened, and she trembled before him. "'Back already!' he exclaimed with a grim smile. "'Be quick and take your things off and come to the library.' If he had discovered anything—the lie, for instance, that she had told him a month ago, or that more recent falsehood when she pretended, without serious reason, to have been at Miss Barfoot's lecture, he would not look and speak thus.

Starting point is 09:22:41 Hurrying, panting, she made a change of dress, and obeyed his summons. Miss Nunn has been here—were his first words. She turned as pale as death. Of course he observed it. She was now preparing for anything. She wanted to see you because she is going away on Monday. What's the matter?" "'Nothing.

Starting point is 09:23:02 You spoke so strangely.' "'Did I? And you look very strangely. I don't understand you. Miss Nunn says that everybody has noticed how ill you seem. It's time we did something. Tomorrow morning we are going down into Somerset, to Clevedon, to find a house.' I thought she had up that idea.

Starting point is 09:23:23 Whether I had or not doesn't matter. In the determination to appear and be energetic he spoke with a rough obstinacy, a doggedness that now and them became violence. I am decided on it now. There's a train to Bristol at ten-twenty. You will pack just a few things. We shan't be away for more than a day or two. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday.

Starting point is 09:23:46 By Friday they might be back. Till now, in an anguish of uncertainty, Monica had made up her mind. She would keep the appointment on Friday. day. Come of it what might. If she could not be back in time, she would write a letter." "'Why are you talking in this tone?' she said coldly. "'What tone? I am telling you what I have decided to do, that's all. I shall easily find a house down there, no doubt. Knowing the place you will be able to suggest the likely localities.' She sat down, for strength was failing her.

Starting point is 09:24:19 "'It's quite true,' Whitteson went on, staring at her with inflamed eyes. You are beginning to look like a ghost. A will have an end of this." He cackled in angry laughter. Not a day's unnecessary delay. Write to both your sisters this evening and tell them. I wish them both to come and live with us." "'Very well?'

Starting point is 09:24:40 "'Now won't you be glad? Won't it be better in every way?' He came so near that she felt his feverish breath. "'I told you before,' she answered. "'To do just as you liked.' And you won't talk about being kept a prisoner?" Monica laughed. "'Oh, no, I won't say anything at all.'

Starting point is 09:25:02 She scarcely knew what words fell from her lips. Let him propose, let him do what he liked. To her it was indifferent. She saw something before her, something she durst not, even an hour ago, have steadily contemplated. It drew her with the force of fate. "'You know we couldn't go on living like this, don't you, Monica?' No, we couldn't.

Starting point is 09:25:25 "'You see?' he almost shouted in triumph, misled by the smile on her face. All that was needed was resolution on my part. I have been absurdly weak, and weakness in the husband means unhappiness in the wife. From to-day you look to me for guidance. I am no tyrant, but I shall rule you for your own good." Still she smiled. So there's an end of our misery, isn't it, darling? What misery!

Starting point is 09:25:52 Good God how I have suffered! Haven't you known it? I have known it too well. And now you'll make up to me for it, Monica? Again, prompted by the irresistible force, she answered mechanically. I will do the best for both. He threw himself on the ground beside her, and clasped her in his arms. No, that is my own dear wife once more.

Starting point is 09:26:16 Your face has altogether changed. See how right it is that a husband should take the law into his own hand. Our second year of marriage shall be very different from the first. And yet we were happy, weren't we, my beautiful? It's only this cursed London that has come between us. At Clevedon we shall begin our life over again, like we did at Guernsey. All our trouble I am convinced has come of your ill health. This air has never suited you.

Starting point is 09:26:42 You have felt miserable, and couldn't be at peace in your home. My poor little girl! My poor darling! Through the evening he was in a state of transport, due partly to the belief that Monica really welcomed his decision, partly to the sense of having behaved at length like a resolute man. His eyes were severely bloodshot, and before bedtime, headache racked him intolerably. Everything was carried out as he had planned it. They journeyed down into Somerset, put up at a Clevedon Hotel, and began house-hunting.

Starting point is 09:27:15 On Wednesday the suitable abode was discovered—a house of modest pretensions, but roomy and well situated. It could be made ready for occupation in a fortnight." Bent on continuing his exhibition of vigorous promptitude, Whitteson signed a lease that same evening. "'Tomorrow we'll go straight home and make our preparations for removal. When all is ready you shall come down here and live at the hotel until the house is furnished. Go to your sister, Virginia, and simply bid her to do as you wish. "'Imitate me!'

Starting point is 09:27:43 He laughed fatuously. "'Don't listen to any objection. When you have once got her away she will thank you.' Thursday afternoon they were back at Hearn Hill. Whittison still kept up the show of extravagant spirits, but he was worn out. He spoke so hoarsely that one would have thought he had contracted a severe sore throat, it resulted merely from nervous strain. After a pretence of dinner, he seated himself as if to read. Glancing at him a few minutes later, Monica found that he was fast asleep. She could not bear to gaze at him, yet her eyes turned thither again and

Starting point is 09:28:18 again. His face was repulsive to her. The deep furrows, the red eyelids, the mottled skin moved her to loathing. And yet she pitied him. His frantic exultation was the cruelest irony. What would he do? What would become of him? She turned away, and presently left the room, for the sound of his uneasy breathing made her suffer too much. When he woke up, he came in search of her, and laughed over his involuntary nap. Well, now, you will go and see your sister to-morrow morning." "'In the afternoon, I think.' "'Why? Don't let us have any procrastination. The morning! The morning!'

Starting point is 09:29:00 "'Please do let me have my way in such a trifle as that,' Monica exclaimed nervously. "'I have all sorts of things to see to hear before I can go out.' He caressed her. "'You shan't say that I am unreasonable. In the afternoon, then. And don't listen to any objections.' No. No." It was Friday. All the morning Whittison had business with house agents and furniture removers, for he would

Starting point is 09:29:27 not let a day go by without some practical step towards relief from the life he detested. Monica seemed to be equally active in her own department. She was turning out drawers and wardrobes, and making selection of things, on some principle understood by herself. A flush remained on her cheeks, in marked contrast to the pallor which for a long time had given her an appearance of wasting away. That, and her singularly bright eyes endowed her with a beauty suggestive of what she might have gained in happy marriage. They had luncheon at one o'clock, and at a quarter to two, Monica started by train for

Starting point is 09:30:03 Clapham Junction. It was her purpose to have a short conversation with Virginia, who knew of the trip to Clevedon, and to speak as though she were quite reconciled to the thought of removal. After that she would pursue her journey so as to reach Bayswater by four o'clock. But Virginia was not at home. Mrs. Coinsby said that she had gone out at eleven in the morning, and with the intention of returning by tea-time. After a brief hesitation, Monica requested the landlady to deliver a message. "'Please ask her not to come to her in Hale until she hears for me, as I am not likely to be at home for a day or two.' This left more time at her disposal than she knew how to employ. She returned to her.

Starting point is 09:30:42 to the railway station, and travelled on to Victoria. There, in the corner of the waiting-room, she sat feverishly impatient, until her watch told her that she might take the next train westward. A possible danger was before her. Though perhaps she need not trouble herself with the thought of such dangers. What if Mr. Barfoot happened to encounter her as she ascended the stairs? But most likely he had no idea that her female friends, who dwelt on the floor above him, were gone away. Did it matter what he might think? think? In a day or two?"

Starting point is 09:31:16 She came to the street, approached the block of flats, involuntarily casting anxious glances about her, and when she was within twenty yards of the door, it opened, and forth came barfoot. Her first sensation was unreasoning terror, her next, thankfulness that she had not been a few minutes sooner, when the very meeting she had feared, within the building itself, would have come to pass. He walked this way. He saw her. And the pleasantest smile of recognition lit up his face.

Starting point is 09:31:45 "'Mrs. Whitterson! Not a moment ago you were in my thoughts. I wished I could see you.' I am going—to make a call in this neighbourhood." She could not command herself. The shock had left her trembling, and the necessity of feigning calmness was a new trial of her nerves. Barfoot, she felt certain, was reading her face like a printed page.

Starting point is 09:32:07 He saw guilt there. His quickly averted eyes, his peculiar smile, seemed to explain to the facile tolerance of a man of the world. Allow me to accompany you to the end of the street." His words buzzed in her ears. She walked on without conscious effort, like an automaton obedient to a touch. You know that Miss Nunn has gone down into Cumberland," Barfoot was saying. His look bent upon her.

Starting point is 09:32:32 "'Yes, I know.' She tried to glance at him with a smile. "'Tomorrow,' he pursued, "'I am going there myself.' To Cumberland?' I shall see her, I hope. Perhaps she will only be angry with me.' "'Perhaps? But perhaps not.' Her confusion would not be overcome. She felt a burning in her ears, on her neck. It was an agony of shame. The word she spoke sounded imbecile mutterings, which must

Starting point is 09:33:00 confirm Barfoot in his worst opinion of her. "'If it is all in vain,' he continued, "'then I shall say good-bye, and there's an end.' "'I hope not. I should think.' useless. She set her lips and became mute. If only he would leave her. And almost immediately he did so, with a few words of kind tone. She felt the pressure of his hand, and saw him walk rapidly away. Doubtless he knew this is what she desired. Until he had passed out of sight, Monica kept the same direction. Then she turned round, and hurried back, fearful lest the detention

Starting point is 09:33:38 might make her late, and Bevis might lose hope of her coming. could be no one in the building now whom she need fear to meet, she opened the big entrance door and went up. Bevis must have been waiting for the sound of her light footstep. His door flew open before she could knock. Without speaking, a silent laugh of joy upon his lips he drew back to make room for her entrance, and then pressed both her hands. In the sitting-room were beginnings of disorder.

Starting point is 09:34:05 Pictures had been taken down from the walls, and light ornaments removed. I shan't sleep hereafter to-night." Bevis began, his agitation scarcely less obvious than Monica's. "'Tomorrow I shall be packing what is to go with me. How I hate it all!' Monica dropped into a chair near the door. "'Oh, not there!' he exclaimed. "'Here!

Starting point is 09:34:28 Where you sat before! We are going to have tea together again!' His utterances were forced, and the laugh that came between them betrayed the quivering of his nerves. "'Tell me what you have been doing! I've thought of you day and night!" He brought a chair close to her, and when he had seated himself he took one of her hands. Monica, scarcely repressing a sob, the result of reaction from her fears and miseries, drew

Starting point is 09:34:52 the hand away. But again he took it. "'There's the glove on it,' he said in a shaking voice. "'What harm in my holding your glove? Don't think of it. And talk to me. I love music, but no music is like your voice.' go on Monday?"

Starting point is 09:35:11 It was her lips that spoke the sentence, not she. No, on Tuesday, I think. My—Mr. Whittison is going to take me away from London." Away? She told him the circumstances. Bevis kept his eyes upon her face, with a look of rapt adoration which turned at length to pain and woeful perplexity. "'You have been married a year,' he murmured.

Starting point is 09:35:37 Oh, if I had met you before that! What a cruel fate that we should know each other only when there was no hope!' The man revealed himself in this dolorous sentimentality. His wonted blitheness and facetiousness, his healthy features, his supple, well-built frame, suggested that when love awoke within him he would express it with virile force. But he trembled and blushed like a young girl, and his accents fell at last into a melodious whining. He raised the gloved finger to his lips. Monica bent her face away, deadly pale, with closed eyes.

Starting point is 09:36:14 "'Are we to part to-day, and never again see each other?' he went on. "'Say that you love me! Only say that you love me!' "'You despise me for coming to you like this.' "'Despise you?' In a sudden rapture he folded his arms about her. "'Say that you love me!' He kissed away the last syllable of her whispered reply.

Starting point is 09:36:35 "'Monika, what is there before us? How can I leave you?' Yielding herself for the moment in a faintness that threatened to subdue her, she was yet able, when his caresses grew wild with passion, to put back his arms and move suddenly away. He sprang up, and they stood speechless. Again he drew near. "'Take me away with you,' Monica then cried, clasping her hands together. "'I can't live with him. Let me go with you to France!' Bevis's wide blue eyes widened with consternation. "'Dare you? Dare you do that?' he stammered. "'Dare I? What courage is needed? How dare I remain with a man I hate!' "'You must leave him. Of course you must leave him!'

Starting point is 09:37:23 "'Oh, before another day is past,' sobbed Monica. "'It is wrong even to go back to-day. I love you! And in that there is nothing to be ashamed of. But what bitter shame to be living with him, practising hypocrisy! He makes me hate myself as much as I hate him." Has he behaved brutally to you, dearest? I have nothing to accuse him of, except that he persuaded me to marry him, made me think that I could love him, when I didn't know what love meant! And now he wishes to get me away from all the people I know because he is jealous of every one.

Starting point is 09:37:58 And how can I blame him? Hasn't he cause for jealousy? I am deceiving him. I have deceived him for a long time, pretending to be a faithful wife, when I have often wished that he might die and release me. It is I who am to blame. I ought to have left him. Every woman who thinks of her husband is I do ought to go away from him. It is base and wicked to stay there, pretending, deceiving." Bevis came towards her and took her in his arms. "'You love me?' she panted under his heart kisses.

Starting point is 09:38:29 "'You will take me away with you.' Yes, you shall come. We mustn't travel together, but you shall come, when I am settled there." "'Why can't I go with you?' "'My own darling think what it would mean if our secret were discovered.' "'Discovered? But how can we think of that? How can I go back there with your kisses on my lips? Oh, I must live somewhere in secret until you go. And then—I have put aside the few things that I want to take. I could never have continued to live with him, even if you hadn't said you love me.

Starting point is 09:39:02 to pretend that I agreed to everything, but I will beg and starve rather than bear that misery any longer. Don't you love me enough to face whatever may happen?" I love you with all my soul, Monica. Sit down again, dearest. Let us talk about it, and see what we can do." He half led, half carried her to a couch, and there, holding her embraced, gave way to such amorous frenzy that again Monica broke from him.

Starting point is 09:39:29 "'If you love me,' she said in tone. of bitter distress. You will respect me as much as before I came to you. Help me! I am suffering so dreadfully. Say it once that I shall go away with you, even if we travel as strangers. If you are afraid of it becoming known, I will do everything to prevent it. I will go back and live there until Tuesday, and come away only at the last hour, so that

Starting point is 09:39:52 no one will ever suspect where— I don't care how humbly I live and we are abroad. I can have lodging somewhere in the same town, or near, and you will come." hair disordered, his eyes wild, quivering throughout with excitement. He stood as if pondering possibilities. "'Shall I be a burden to you?' she asked in a faint voice. "'Is the expense more than you—' "'No, no, no! How can you think of such a thing? But it would be so much better if you

Starting point is 09:40:21 could wait here until I—' Oh, what a wretched thing to have to seem so cowardly to you! But the difficulties are so great, darling! I shall be a perfect stranger at Bordeaux. I don't—I don't even speak the language at all well. When I reach there I shall be met at the station by one of our people, and just think, how could we manage? You know if it would discover that I had run away with you, it would damage my position terribly. I can't say what might happen.

Starting point is 09:40:47 My darling, we shall have to be very careful. In a few weeks it might all be managed very easily. I would write to you to some address, and as soon as ever I had made arrangements." Monica broke down. The unmanliness of his tone was so dreadful a disillusion. She had expected something so different entirely—swift, virile passion, eagerness even to anticipate her desire of flight—a strength, a courage to which she could abandon herself, body and soul. She broke down utterly, and wept with her hands upon her face.

Starting point is 09:41:18 Bevis, in sympathetic distraction, threw himself on his knees before, clutching at her waist. "'Don't! Don't!' he wailed. "'I can't bear that! I will do as you wish, Monica. me some place where I can write to you. Don't cry, darling, don't!" She went to the couch again, and rested her face against the back, sobbing. For a time they exchanged mere incoherences. Then passion seized upon both, and they clung together, mute, motionless.

Starting point is 09:41:50 "'To-morrow I shall leave him,' whispered Monica, when at length their eyes met. "'He will be away in the morning, and I can take what I need. Tell me where I shall go to, dear, to wait until you are ready. No one will ever suspect that we have gone together. He knows that I am miserable with him. He will believe that I have found some way of supporting myself in London. Where shall I live till Tuesday?' Bevis scarcely listened to her words.

Starting point is 09:42:18 The temptation of the natural man, basely selfish, was strengthening its hold upon him. "'Do you love me? Do you really love me?' he replied to her, with thick, agitated utterance. Why should you ask that? How can you doubt it? If you really love me. His face and tones frightened her. Don't make me doubt your love.

Starting point is 09:42:42 If I have not perfect trust in you, what will become of me? Yet once more she drew resolutely away from him. He pursued, and held her arms with violence. Oh, I am mistaken in you, Monica cried in fear and bitterness. You don't know what love means, as I feel. feel it. You won't speak. You won't think of our future life together." I have promised. Leave loose of me. It's because I have come here. You think me a worthless woman, without sense of honour, with no self-respect." He protested vehemently. The anguished look

Starting point is 09:43:17 in her eyes had its effect upon his senses. By degrees it subjugated him, and made him ashamed of his ignoble impulse. "'Shall I find a lodging for you till Tuesday?' he asked, after moving away." "'Will you?' You are sure you can leave home to-morrow, without being suspected. "'Yes, I am sure I can. He is going to the city in the morning.

Starting point is 09:43:41 Appoint some place where I can meet you. I will come in a cab, and then you can take me on to the—' But you are forgetting the risks. If you take a cab from Herne Hill with your luggage, he'll be able to find out the driver afterwards, and learn where you went. Then I will drive only as far as the station, and come to Victoria, and you shall meet me The necessity of these paltry arrangements filled her soul with shame. On the details of her escape she had hardly reflected.

Starting point is 09:44:09 All such considerations were, she deemed, naturally the care of her lover, who would act with promptitude, and so as to spare her a moment's perplexity. She had imagined everything in readiness within a few hours, on her no responsibility, save that of breaking the hated bond. Inevitably, she turned to the wretched thought that Bevis regarded her as a burden. Yes, he had already his mother and his sisters to support. She ought to have remembered that. What time would it be? he was asking.

Starting point is 09:44:41 Unable to reply, she pursued her reflections. She had money, but how to obtain possession of it. Afterwards, when her flight was accomplished, secrecy it appeared would be no less needful than now. That necessity had never occurred to her. Declaration of the love that had freed her seemed inevitable, nay desirable. Her self-respect demanded it. Only thus could she justify herself before his sisters and other people who knew her. They, perhaps, would not see it in the light of justification, but that mattered little.

Starting point is 09:45:12 Her own conscience would approve what she had done. But to steal away, and live henceforth in hiding, like a woman dishonoured even in her own eyes, from that she shrank with repugnance. Rather than that, would it not be preferable to break with her husband, and live openly apart from him, alone?" "'Be honest with me,' she suddenly exclaimed. "'Had you rather I didn't come?' "'No, no, I can't live without you.

Starting point is 09:45:38 But if that is true, why haven't you the courage to let everyone know it? In your heart you must think that we are acting wrongly.' "'I don't. I believe, as you do, that love is the only true marriage.' "'Very well,' he made a desperate. gesture. Let us defy all consequences. For your sake!"

Starting point is 09:45:58 His exaggerated vehemence could not deceive Monica. "'What is it?' she asked, "'that you most fear.' He began to babble protestations, but she would not listen to them. "'Tell me. I have every right to ask. What do you most fear?' "'I fear nothing if you were with me. Let my relatives say and think what they like.

Starting point is 09:46:20 I have made great sacrifices for them to give you upward be too much." Yet his distress was evident. It strained the corners of his mouth, wrinkled his forehead. The disgrace would be more than you could bear. You would never see your mother and your sisters again. If they are so prejudiced, so unreasonable I can't help it. They must—

Starting point is 09:46:42 He was interrupted by a loud rat-tat at the outer door. Blanched herself, Monica saw that her lover's face turned to ghastly pallor. Who can that be? He whispered hoarsely. I expect no one. Need you answer? Can it be—have you been followed? Does anyone suspect?

Starting point is 09:47:01 They stared at each other, still half paralysed, and stood waiting thus until the knock was repeated impatiently. I daren't open, Bavis whispered, coming close to her, as if on the impulse of seeking protection, for to offer it was assuredly not in his mind. It might be. No, that's impossible. I daren't go to the door. The risk is too frightful.

Starting point is 09:47:25 He will go away, whoever it is, if no one answers. Both were shaking in the second stage of terror. Bevis put his arms about Monica, and felt her heart give great throbs against his own. Their passion for the moment was effectually quenched. Listen! That's the chink of the letter-box. A card or something has been put in. Then it's all right.

Starting point is 09:47:47 I'll wait a moment. He stepped to the door of the room, opened it without sound, and at once heard footsteps descending the stairs. In the look which he cast back at her, a grin rather than a smile, Monica saw something that gave her a pang of shame on his behalf. Ungoing to the letter-box he found a card, with a few words scribbled upon it. "'Only one of our partners!' he exclaimed gleefully. "'Wants to see me to-night. Of course he took it for granted I was out.' Monica was looking at her watch, past five o'clock. I think I must go," she said timidly.

Starting point is 09:48:24 "'But what are our arrangements? Do you still intend?' "'Intend? Isn't it for you to decide?' There was a coldness in the words of both, partly the result of the great shock they had undergone, in part due to their impatience with each other. "'Darling, do what I proposed at first. Stay for a few days, until I am settled at Bordeaux.'

Starting point is 09:48:47 "'Stay with my—my husband!' She used the words. word purposely, significantly, to see how it would affect him. The bitterness of her growing disillusion allowed her to think and speak as if no ardent feeling were concerned. "'For both our sakes, dearest, dearest love! A few days longer until I have written to you, and told you exactly what to do. The journey won't be very difficult for you. And think how much better, dear Monica, if we can escape discovery, and live for each other without any shame or fear to disturb us! You will be my own dear—'

Starting point is 09:49:20 dear, true wife. I will love and guard you as long as I live." He embraced her with placid tenderness, laying his cheek against hers, kissing her hands. "'We must see each other again,' he continued. "'Come on Sunday, will you? And in the meantime find out some place where I could address letters to you. You could always find a stationer's shop where they will receive letters. Be guided by me, dear little girl. a week or two to save the happiness of our whole lives."

Starting point is 09:49:51 Monica listened, but with half attention, her look fixed on the floor. Encouraged by her silence, the lover went on in a strain of heightening enthusiasm, depicting the raptures of their retirement from the world in some suburb of Bordeaux. How this retreat was to escape the notice of his business companions, through whom the scandal might get wind, he did not suggest. The truth was, Bevis found himself in an extremely awkward position. with issues he had not contemplated, and all he cared for was to avert the immediate peril of public discovery.

Starting point is 09:50:24 The easy-going, kindly fellow had never considered all the responsibility involved in making wild love, timorously selfish from the first, to a married woman who took his advances with desperate seriousness. He had not in him the stuff of vigorous rascality, still less the only other quality which can support a man in such a situation as this. Heroism of moral revolt. So he cut a very poor figure, and was dolefully aware of it. He talked, talked, trying to disguise his feebleness in tinsel phrases, and Monica still kept

Starting point is 09:50:57 her eyes cast down. When another half-hour had passed, she sighed deeply and rose from her seat. She would write to him, she said, and let him know where a reply would reach her. No, she must not come here again. All he had to tell her would be communicated by letter. the subdued tone, the simple sadness of her words, distressed Bevis, and yet he secretly congratulated himself. He had done nothing for which this woman could justly reproach him. Marvelous, so he considered, had been his self-restraint. Absolutely he had behaved like a gentleman,

Starting point is 09:51:31 to be sure he was miserably in love, and, if circumstances by any means allowed of it, would send for Monica to join him in France. Should the thing prove impossible he had nothing whatever on his conscience. He held out his arms to her. Monica shook her head and looked away. "'Say once more that you love me, darling,' he pleaded. "'I shall not rest for an hour until I am able to write and say come to me.' She permitted him to hold her once more in his soft embrace. "'Kiss me, Monica!' She put her lips to his cheek, and withdrew them, still shunning his look.

Starting point is 09:52:07 "'Oh, not that kind of kiss. Like you kissed me before. I can't, she replied, with a choking voice, the tears again starting forth. "'But what have I done that you should love me less, dearest?' He kissed the falling drops, murmuring assurances, encouragements. You shan't leave me until I have heard you say that your love is unchanged. Whisper it to me, sweetest. When we meet again, not now. You frighten me.

Starting point is 09:52:37 Monica, are we not saying good-bye for ever?" If you send for me I will come. You promise faithfully, you will come. If you send for me, I will come. That was her last word. He opened the door for her, and listened as she departed. End of Chapter 22. Chapter 23 of the Odd Women.

Starting point is 09:53:05 This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clet. The Odd Women By George Gissing Chapter 23 In Ambush Hitherto Witteson had entertained no grave mistrust of his wife. The principles she had avowed, directly traceable as it seemed, to her friendship with the militant

Starting point is 09:53:28 women in Chelsea, he disliked and feared, but her conduct he fully believed to be above reproach. His jealousy of Barfoot did not glance at Monica's attitude towards the man, merely at the man himself, whom he credited with native scoundreldom. Barfoot represented to his mind a type of licentious bachelor, why he could not have made perfectly clear to his own understanding. Possibly the ease of Everard's bearing, the something aristocratic in his countenance and his speech, the polish of his manner, especially in formal converse with women, from the first

Starting point is 09:54:05 gave offence to Whittison's essentially middle-class sensibilities. If Monica were in danger at all, it was, he felt convinced, from that quarter. The subject of his wife's intimate dialogue with Barfoot at the Academy still remained a mystery to him. He put faith in her rebellious declaration that every word might have been safely repeated in his hearing, but be the matter what it might, the manner of Barfoot's talk meant evil. Of that conviction he could not get rid. He had read somewhere that a persistently jealous husband may not not improbably end by irritating an innocent wife into affording real ground for jealousy. A man with

Starting point is 09:54:46 small knowledge of the world is much impressed by dicta such as these. They get into the crannies of his mind, and thence direct the course of his thinking. Whittison, before his marriage, had never suspected the difficulty of understanding a woman. Had he spoken his serious belief on that subject, it would have been found to represent the most primitive male conception of the feminine being. Women were very like children. It was rather a task to amuse them and to keep them out of mischief. Therefore the blessedness of household toil, in especial the blessedness of child-bearing and all that followed. Intimacy with Monica had greatly affected his views, yet chiefly by disturbing them.

Starting point is 09:55:27 No firmer ground offered itself to his threading when he perforce admitted that his former standpoint was every day assailed by some incontestable piece of evidence. Women had individual characters. That discovery, though not a very profound one, impressed him with the force of something arrived at by independent observation. Monica often puzzled him gravely. He could not find the key to her satisfactions and discontents. To regard her simply as a human being was beyond the reach of his intelligence. He cast the blame of his difficulties upon sex, and paid more attention to the hints on

Starting point is 09:56:03 such afforded him by his reading. He would endeavour to keep his jealousy out of sight, lest the mysterious tendency of the female nature might prompt Monica to deliberate wrongdoing. Today, for the first time, there flashed across him the thought that he might already have been deceived. It originated in the peculiarity of Monica's behavior at luncheon. She ate scarcely anything. She seemed hurried, frequently glancing at the clock, and she lost herself in reverie. Discovering that his eye was upon her, she between. She between trade uneasiness, and began to talk without considering what she meant to say. All this might

Starting point is 09:56:41 mean nothing more than her barely concealed regret at being obliged to leave London. But Whittison remarked it with the vivacity of feeling, perhaps due to the excitement in which she had lived for the past week. Perhaps the activity, the resolution to which he had urged himself, caused a sharpening of his perceptions. And the very thought, never out of his mind, that only a few days had to elapse before he carried off his wife from the scene of peril, tended to make him more vividly conscious of that peril. Certain it was that a moment's clairvoyance assailed his peace, and left behind it all manner of ugly conjectures.

Starting point is 09:57:18 Women, so said the books, are adept at dissimulation. Was it conceivable that Monica had taken advantage of the liberty he had uplaid allowed her? If a woman could not endure a direct, searching gaze, must it not imply some enormous wickedness? seeing that nature has armed them for this very trial. In her setting forth for the railway station, hurry was again evident, and disinclination to exchange parting words. If the eagerness were simple and honest, would she not have accepted his suggestion and have gone in the morning? For five minutes after her departure he stood in

Starting point is 09:57:54 the hall, staring before him. A new jealousy, a horrible constriction of the heart had begun to torture him. He went and walked about. out in the library, but could not dispel his suffering. Vain to keep repeating that Monica was incapable of baseness. Of that he was persuaded, but nonetheless a hideous image returned upon his mental vision—a horror, a pollution of thought. One thing he could do to restore his sanity—he would walk over to Lavender Hill and accompany his wife on her return home. Indeed, the mere difficulty of getting through the afternoon advised this project. He could not employing to employ himself, and he knew that his imagination, once inflamed, would leave him not a moment's

Starting point is 09:58:38 rest. Yes, he would walk to Lavender Hill, and ramble about that region until Monica had had reasonable time for talk with her sister. About three o'clock there fell a heavy shower of rain. Strangely against his habits, Whittison turned into a quiet public house, and sat for a quarter of an hour at the bar, drinking a glass of whiskey. the past week he had taken considerably more wine than usual at meals. He seemed to need the support. While sipping his glass of spirits, he oddly enough fell into talk with the barmaid, a young woman

Starting point is 09:59:11 of some charms, and what appeared to be unaffected modesty. Not for twenty years had Whittison conversed with a member of this sisterhood. Their dialogue was made up of the most trifling of trivialities. Weather, a railway accident, the desirability of holidays at this season. And when at length he and put an end to the chat, it was with appreciable reluctance. A good, nice sort of girl, he went away saying to himself, "'Pity she should be serving at a bar, hearing doubtful talk, and seeing very often vile sights. A nice, soft-spoken little girl.'

Starting point is 09:59:48 And he mused upon her remembered face with a complacency which soothed his feelings. Of a sudden he was checked by the conversion of his sentiment into thought. Would he not have been a much happier man if he had married a girl distinctly his inferior in mind and station? Provided she were sweet, lovable, docile, such a wife would have spared him all the misery he had known with Monica. From the first he had understood that Monica was no representative shop-girl, and on that very account he had striven so eagerly to win her.

Starting point is 10:00:20 But it was a mistake. He had loved her, still loved her, with all the emotion of which he was capable. How many hours genuine happiness of soul had that love afforded him? The minutest fraction of the twelve months for which she had been his wife—and of suffering—often amounting to frantic misery, he could count many weeks. Could such a marriage as this be judged a marriage at all, in any true sense of the word? Let me ask myself a question. If Monica were absolutely free to choose between continuing to live with me and resuming

Starting point is 10:00:52 her perfect liberty, can I persuade myself that she would remain my wife? She would not. Not for a day, not for an hour. Of that I am morally convinced. And I acknowledge the grounds of her dissatisfaction. We are unsuited to each other. We do not understand each other. Our marriage is physical and nothing more. My love. What is my love? I do not love her mind, her intellectual part. If I did this frightful jealousy from which I suffer would be impossible. My ideal of the wife, perfectly suited to me, is far like her that girl at the public-house-bar than Monica. Monica's independence of thought is a perpetual irritation to me. I don't know what her thoughts really are, what her intellectual life signifies. And yet I hold her to me with the sternest grasp. If she endeavoured to release herself I should feel capable of killing her. Is not this a strange? A brutal thing." Whittison had never before reached this height of speculation. In the moment

Starting point is 10:01:56 by the very fact of admitting that Monica and he ought not to be living together, he became more worthy of his wife's companionship than ever hitherto. Well, he would exercise greater forbearance. He would endeavour to win her respect by respecting the freedom she claimed. His recent suspicions of her were monstrous. If she knew them, how her soul would revolt from him. What if she took an interest in other men, perchance more her equals than he? Why had he not just been thinking of another woman? Reflecting that she, or one love, her would have made him a more suitable wife than Monica? Yet this could not reasonably be called unfaithfulness. They were bound together for life, and their wisdom lay in mutual toleration,

Starting point is 10:02:38 the constant endeavour to understand each other aright, not in fierce restraint of each other's mental liberty. How many marriages were anything more than mutual forbearance? Perhaps there ought not to be such a thing as enforced permanence of marriage. This was daring speculation, he could not have endured to hear it from Monica's lips. But perhaps, someday, marriage would be dissoluble at the will of either party to it. Perhaps the man who sought to hold a woman when she no longer loved him would be regarded with contempt and condemnation. What a simple thing, marriage had always seemed to him, and how far from simple he had found it. Why it led him to musings which overset the order of the world, and flung all ideas of religion

Starting point is 10:03:22 and morality into wildest confusion. It would not do to think like this. He was a man wedded to a woman very difficult to manage. There was the practical upshot of the matter. His duty was to manage her. He was responsible for her right conduct. With intentions perfectly harmless, she might run into unknown jeopardy. Above all, just at this time when she was taking reluctant leave of her friends.

Starting point is 10:03:47 The danger justified him in exceptional vigilance. So, from his excursion into the realms of reason, did he return to the safe sphere of the commonplace. And now he might venture to press on towards Mrs. Coyneby's house, for it was half-past four, and already Monica must have been talking with her sister for a couple of hours. His knock at the door was answered by the landlady herself. She told of Mrs. Whittison's arrival and departure. Ah, then Monica had no doubt gone straight home again. But as Miss Madden had returned, he would speak with her.

Starting point is 10:04:20 "'The poor lady is it very well, sir,' said Mrs. Coinsby, fingering the hammer of her apron. "'Not very well, but couldn't I see her for a moment?' Virginia answered this question by appearing on the staircase. "'Some one for me, Mrs. Coinsby?' she called from above. "'Oh, is it you, Edmund? So very glad. I am sure Mrs. Coinsby will have the kindness to let you come into her sitting-room. What a pity I was away when Monica called. I've had business to see to in town, and I've walked and walked until I'm really hardly able." She sank upon a chair in the room, and looked fixedly at the visitor, with a broad, benevolent

Starting point is 10:04:59 smile, her head moving up and down. Whittison was for a moment in perplexity. If the evidence of his eyes could be trusted, Miss Madden's disposition pointed to a cause so strange that it seemed incredible. He turned to look for Mrs. Coinsby, but the landlady had hurriedly withdrawn, closing the door behind her." "'Hate his foolish of me, Edmund,' Virginia rambled on, addressing him with a familiarity she had never yet used.

Starting point is 10:05:26 While I am away from home I forget all about my meals—really forget—and that all at once I find I am quite exhausted, quite exhausted as you see—and the worst if it is I have altogether lost my appetite by the time I get back. I couldn't eat a mouthful of food, not a mouthful! I assure you I couldn't—and it does so distress good Mrs. Coinsby—she is exceedingly kind to me, exceedingly careful about my health. Oh, and in Battersea Park Road I saw such a shocking sight! A great cart ran over a poor little dog, and it was killed on the spot. It unnerved me dreadfully. I do think, Edmund, those drivers ought to be more careful.

Starting point is 10:06:02 I was saying to Mrs. Coinsby only the other day. And that reminds me, I do so want to know all about your visit to Clevedon. Dear, dear Clevedon! And have you really taken a house, there, Edmund? Oh, if we could end all our days at Clevedon! You know that our dear father! mother are buried in the old churchyard. You remember Tennyson's lines about the old church at Clevedon? Oh, and what did Monica decide about—about—ah—really, what was I going to ask? It is so foolish of me to forget that dinner-time has come and gone. I get so exhausted, and even my memory fails me."

Starting point is 10:06:36 He could doubt no longer. This poor woman had yielded to one of the temptations that beset a life of idleness and solitude. His pity was mingled with disgust. I only wish to tell you, he said gravely, that we have taken a house at Clevedon. "'You really have!' she clasped her hands together. "'Whereabouts?' Near Dile Hill. Virginia began a rhapsody which her brother-in-law had no inclination to hear.

Starting point is 10:07:03 He rose abruptly. "'Perhaps you had better come and see us to-morrow.' "'But Monica left a message that she wouldn't be at home for the next few days, and that I wasn't to come till I heard from her.' Not at home. I think there's a mistake. Oh, impossible. We'll ask Mrs. Coinsby.' She went to the door and called. From the landlady Whittison learned exactly what Monica had said.

Starting point is 10:07:27 He reflected for a moment. She shall write to you, then. Don't come just yet. I mustn't stay any longer now. And with a mere pretense of shaking hands, he abruptly left the house. Suspicion sickened about him. He would have thought it utterly impossible for Miss Madden to-Den to. disgrace herself in this vulgar way, and the appalling discovery affected his view of Monica. They were sisters. They had characteristics in common—family traits—weaknesses. If the elder woman could fall into this degradation—might there not be possibilities in Monica's

Starting point is 10:08:01 character such as he had refused to contemplate? Was there not terrible reason for mistrusting her? What did she mean by her message to Virginia? Black and haggard he went home as fast as a handsome could take him. It was half-past five when he reached the house. His wife was not here, and had not been here. At this moment Monica was starting by train from Bayswater, after her parting with Bevis. Arrived at Victoria, she crossed to the main station, and went to the lady's waiting-room for the purpose of bathing her face.

Starting point is 10:08:33 She had red, swollen eyes, and her hair was in slight disorder. This done, she inquired as to the next train to Hearn Hill. One had just gone, another would leave in about a cold. quarter of an hour. A dreadful indecision was harassing her. Ought she, did she dare to return home at all? Even if her strength sufficed for simulating a natural manner, could she consent to play so base apart. There was but one possible alternative. She might go to Virginia's lodgings, and there remain, writing to her husband that she had left him. The true cause need not be confessed. She would merely declare that life with him had become intolerable to her,

Starting point is 10:09:14 that she demanded a release. Their approaching removal to Clevedon offered the occasion. She would say that her endurance failed before that prospect of solitude, and that feeling as she did, it was dishonorable to make longer pretense of doing her duty as a wife. Then, if Bevis wrote to her in such a way as to revive her love, if he seriously told her to come to him, all difficulties could be solved by her disappearance. Was such revival of disheartened love a likely or possible thing. At this moment she felt that to flee in secret, and live with Bevis, as he proposed, would be no less dishonor than abiding with the man who had a legal claim upon her companionship. Her lover, as she had thought of him for the past two or three months, was only a figment

Starting point is 10:09:58 of her imagination. Bevis had proved himself a complete stranger to her mind. She must reshape her knowledge of him. His face was all that she could still dwell upon with the old desire. Nay, even that had suffered a change. Insensibly the minutes went by, whilst she sat in the waiting-room her train started, and when she had become aware of that her resolution grew more tormenting. Suddenly there came upon her a feeling of illness, of nausea. Perspiration broke out on her forehead, her eyes dazzled, she had to let her head fall back. It passed, but in a minute or two the fit again seized her, and with a moan she lost consciousness.

Starting point is 10:10:40 two or three women who were in the room rendered assistance. The remarks they exchanged, though expressing uncertainty and discreetly ambiguous, would have been significant to Monica. On her recovery, which took place in a few moments, she had once started up, and with hurried thanks to those about her, listening to nothing that was said in answering no inquiry, she went out onto the platform. There was just time to catch the train now departing for Hearn Hill. She explained her fainting fit by the hours of agitation through which she had past. There was no room for surprise. She had suffered indescribably and still suffered. Her wish was

Starting point is 10:11:16 to get back into the quietness of home, to rest and to lose herself in sleep. On entering she saw nothing of her husband. His hat hung on the hall-tree, and he was perhaps sitting in the library. The more genial temper would account for his not coming forth at once to meet her, as had been as custom when she returned from an absence alone. She changed her dress, and disguised as far as was possible the traces of suffering on her features. Weakness and tremor urged her to lie down, but she could not venture to do this until she had spoken to her husband. Supporting herself by the banisters, she slowly descended and opened the library door.

Starting point is 10:11:54 Whittison was reading a newspaper. He did not look round, but said carelessly, "'So you were back?' "'Yes. I hope you didn't expect me sooner.' "'Oh, it's all right.' He threw a rapid glance at her over. his shoulder.

Starting point is 10:12:09 Had a long talk with Virginia, I suppose. Yes, I couldn't get away before." Whittison seemed to be much interested in some paragraph. He put his face closer to the paper, and was silent for two or three seconds. Then he again looked round, this time observing his wife steadily, but with a face that gave no intimation of unusual thoughts. Does she consent to go? Monica replied that it was still uncertain.

Starting point is 10:12:36 She thought, however, that Virginia. his objections would be overcome. You look very tired, remarked the other. I am, very. And thereupon she withdrew, unable to command her countenance, scarce able to remain standing for another moment. End of Chapter 23. Chapter 24 of the Odd Women.

Starting point is 10:13:04 This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clatt. The Odd Women. by George Gissing Chapter 24 Tracked When Whittison went up to the bedroom that night Monica was already asleep

Starting point is 10:13:23 He discovered this on turning up the gas The light fell upon her face And he was drawn to the bedside to look at her The feature signified nothing but repose Her lips were just apart Her eyelids lie softly with their black fringe Of exquisite pencilling and her hair was arranged as she always prepared it for the pillow.

Starting point is 10:13:45 He watched her for full five minutes, and detected not the slightest movement, so profound was her sleep. Then he turned away, muttering savagely under his breath, "'Hipocrite, liar!' But for a purpose in his thoughts he would not have lain down beside her. On getting into bed he kept as far away as possible, and all through the wakeful night his His limbs shrank from the touch of hers. He rose an hour earlier than usual. Monica had long been awake, but she moved so seldom that he could not be sure of this.

Starting point is 10:14:21 Her face was turned away from him. When he came back to the room after his bath, Monica propped herself on her elbow, and asked why he was moving so early. "'I want to be in the city at nine,' he replied with a show of cheerfulness. "'There's a money affair I must see after.' something that's gone wrong i'm afraid so i must lose no time in looking into it what plans have you for to-day none whatever it's saturday you know i promised to see new dick this afternoon perhaps i may bring him to dinner about twelve o'clock he returned from his business at two he went away again saying that he should not be back before seven it might be a little later in monica these movements excited no special remark they were merely a continuance of his restlessness but no sooner had he departed after luncheon than she went to her dressing-room and began to make slow uncertain preparations for leaving home herself

Starting point is 10:15:21 This morning she had tried to write a letter for Bevis, but vainly. She knew not what to say to him, uncertain of her own desires and of what lay before her. Yet if she were to communicate with him henceforth at all, it was necessary this very afternoon to find an address where letters could be received for her, and to let him know of it. To-morrow, Sunday, was useless for the purpose, and on Monday it might be impossible for her to go out alone. Besides that, she could not be sure of the safety of a letter delivered to the flat Monday night or Tuesday morning. She dressed at length and went out. Her wisest course probably was to seek for some obliging shopkeeper near Lavender Hill. Then she could call on Virginia, transact the business she had pretended to discharge yesterday, and there pen a note to Bevis. Her moods alternated with distracting rapidity. A hundred times she had resolved that Bevis could be nothing more to her.

Starting point is 10:16:18 her, and again had thought of him with impulses of yearning, trying to persuade herself that he had acted well and wisely. A hundred times she determined to carry out her idea of yesterday, to quit her husband, and resist all his efforts to recall her, and again had all but resigned herself to live with him, accepting degradation as so many wives perforce did. Her mind was in confusion, and physically she felt far from well. A heaviness weighed upon her limbs, making it hardship to walk however short a distance. Arrived at Clapham Junction, she began to search wearily, indifferently, for the kind of shop that might answer her purpose.

Starting point is 10:16:58 The receiving of letters which, for one reason or another, must be dispatched to a secret address, is a very ordinary complacence on the part of small London stationers. Hundreds of such letters are sent and called for every week within the Metropolitan Postal area. It did not take Monica long to find an obliged to. shopkeeper, the first to whom she applied, a decent woman behind a counter which displayed newspapers, tobacco, and fancy articles, willingly accepted the commission. She came out of the shop with flushed cheeks. Another step in shameful dissent, yet it had

Starting point is 10:17:33 the result of strengthening once more her emotions favorable to Bevis. On his account she had braved this ignominy, and it drew her towards him, instead of producing the effect which would have seemed more natural. Perhaps the reason that he was a reason that he was a goodmane. Perhaps the reason reason was that she felt herself more hopelessly and outcast from the world of honourable women, and therefore longed in her desolation for the support of a man's love. Did he not love her? It was her fault if she expected him to act with a boldness that did not lie in his nature. Perhaps his discretion, which she had so bitterly condemned as weakness, meant a wise regard

Starting point is 10:18:08 for her interests as well as his own. The public scandal of divorce was a hideous thing. If it damaged his prospects and sundered him from his relative, he was his relative. relatives, how could she hope that his love of her, the cause of it all, would long endure? The need of love overcame her. She would submit to any conditions rather than lose this lover whose kisses were upon her lips, and whose arms had held her so passionately. She was too young to accept a life of resignation, too ardent. Why had she left him in despondency, in doubt whether he would ever again see her? She turned back on her way to Virginia's lodgings, re-earned

Starting point is 10:18:46 entered the station, and journeyed townwards. It was an odd incident, by Monica unperceived, that when she was taking her ticket there stood close by her a man, seemingly a mechanic, who had also stood within hearing when she booked at Hearn Hill. This same man, though he had not travelled in the compartment with her, followed her when she alighted at Bayswater. She did not once observe him. Instead of writing, she had resolved to see Bevis again, if it were possible. Perhaps he would not have to beaise. be at the flat, yet his wish might suggest the bare hope of her coming today. The risk of meeting Barfoot probably need not be considered, for he had told her that he was travelling to-day

Starting point is 10:19:26 into Cumberland, and for so long a journey he would be sure to set forth in the morning. At worst she would suffer a disappointment. Indulgence of her fervid feelings had made her as eager to see Bevis as she was yesterday. Words of tenderness rushed to her lips for utterance. When she reached the building all but delirium possessed her. She had hurried up to the first landing, when a footstep behind drew her attention. It was a man in mechanic's dress, coming up with head bent, doubtless for some task or rather in one of the flats. Perhaps he was going to Bevises. She went forward more slowly, and on the next landing allowed the man to pass her. Yes, more likely than not he was engaged

Starting point is 10:20:09 in packing her lover's furniture. She stood still. At that moment a door closed above, and another step, lighter and quicker, that of a woman, came downstairs. As far as her ear could judge, this person might have left Bevace's flat. A conflict of emotions excited her to panic. She was afraid either to advance or retreat, and an equal dread of standing without purpose. She stepped up to the nearest door, and gave a summons with the knocker. This door was barfoot's. She knew that, in the first instant of fear occasioned by the workman's approach,

Starting point is 10:20:45 she had glanced at the door and reminded herself that here Mr. Barfoot dwelt, immediately beneath Bevis. But for the wild alarm, due to her conscience-stricken state, she could not have risked the possibility of the tenant being still at home, and yet it seemed to her that she was doing the only thing possible under the circumstances. For this woman, whom she had heard just above, might perchance be one of Bevis's sisters returned to London for some purpose or other, and in that case she preferred being seen at Barfoot's door to detection as she made for her lovers. Uncertainty on this point lasted but a few seconds. Dreading to look at the woman, Monica yet did so, just as she passed, and beheld the face

Starting point is 10:21:25 of a perfect stranger. A young and good-looking face, however. Her mind, sufficiently tumultuous, received a new impulse of disturbance. Had this woman come forth from Bevis's flat or from the one opposite, for on each floor there were two dwellings. In the meantime no one answered her knock. Mr. Barfoot had gone. She breathed, thankfully. Now she might venture to ascend to the next floor, but then a knock sounded from above. That, she felt convinced was at Bevis's door,

Starting point is 10:21:55 and if so her conjecture about the workman was correct. She stood waiting for certainty, as if still expecting a reply to her own signal at Mr. Barfoot's door. The mechanic looked down at her over the banisters, but of this she was unaware. The knock above was repeated. Yes, this time there could be no mistake. It was on this side of the landing, that is to say, at her lover's door. But the door did not open. Thus, without going up herself, she received assurance that Bevis was not at home. He might come later. She still had an hour or two to spare. So, as if disappointed in a call at Mr. Barfoot's, she descended the stairs and issued into the street. Agitation had exhausted her, and a dazzling of her eyes threatened a recurrence of yesterday's

Starting point is 10:22:41 faintness. She found a shop where refreshments were sold, and sat for half an hour over a cup of tea, trying to amuse herself with illustrated papers. The mechanic who had knocked at Bevis's door passed once or twice along the pavement, and as long as she remained there, kept the shop within sight. At length she asked for writing materials, and penned a few lines. If on her second attempt she failed to see Bevis, she would drop this note into his letter-box. It acquainted to him with the address to which he might direct letters, assured him passionately of her love, and implored him to be true to her, to send for her as soon as circumstances made it possible. Self-torment of every kind was natural to her position. Though the relief of escaping from

Starting point is 10:23:27 several distinct dangers had put her mind comparatively at ease for a short time, she had now begun to suffer a fresh uneasiness with reference to the young and handsome woman who came downstairs. The fact that no one answered the workman's knock had seemed to her sufficient proof that Bevis was not at home, and that the stranger must have come forth from the flat opposite his. But she recollected the incident which had so alarmingly disturbed her and her lover yesterday. Bevis did not then go to the door, and suppose—' Oh, it was folly! But suppose that woman had been with him! Suppose he did not care to open to a visitor whose signal sounded only a minute or two after that person's departure.

Starting point is 10:24:07 Had she not anguish enough to endure without the addition of frantic jealousy? She would not give another thought to such absurd suggestions. The woman had, of course, come from the dwelling opposite. Yet why might she not have been in Bevis's flat when he himself was absent? Suppose her an intimate to whom he had entrusted a latch-key. If any such connection existed, might it not help to explain Bevis' half-heartedness? To think thus was courting madness. Unable to sit still any longer, Monica left.

Starting point is 10:24:37 the shop, and strayed for some ten minutes about the neighboring streets, drawing nearer and nearer to her goal. Finally she entered the building and went upstairs. On this occasion no one met her, and no one entered in her rear. She knocked at her lover's door, and stood longing, praying that it might open. But it did not. Tears started to her eyes. She uttered a moan of bitterest disappointment, and slipped the envelope she was carrying into the letter-box. The mechanic had seen her go in, and he waited outside a few yards away. Either she would soon reappear, or her not doing so would show that she had obtained admitted somewhere. In the latter case, this workman, of much curiosity and leisure, had only to lurk about the

Starting point is 10:25:20 staircase until she came forth again. But this trial of patience was spared him. He found that he had simply to follow the lady back to Hearn Hill. Acting on very suggestive instructions, it never occurred to the worthy man that the lady's second visit was not to the same flat as in the former instance. Monica was home again long before dinner-time. When that hour arrived, her husband had not yet come. The delay, no doubt, was somehow connected with his visit to Mr. Newdick. But this went on. At nine o'clock Monica still sat alone, hungry, yet scarce conscious of hunger owing to her miseries. Whittison had never behaved thus, another quarter of an hour, and she heard the front door open.

Starting point is 10:26:04 He came to the drawing-room, where she sat waiting. "'How late you are! Are you alone?' "'Yes, alone.' "'You haven't had dinner?' "'No.' He seemed to be in rather a gloomy mood, but Monica noticed nothing that alarmed her. He was drawing nearer, his eyes on the ground. "'Have you had bad news? In the city?'

Starting point is 10:26:28 "'Yes, I have.' still he came nearer and at length when a yard or two away raised his look to her face have you been out this afternoon she was prompted to a falsehood but durst not utter it so keenly was he regarding her yes i went to see miss barfoot liar as the word burst from his lips he sprang at her clutched her dress at the throat and flung her violently upon her knees a short cry of terror escaped her. Then she was stricken dumb, with eyes starting and mouth open. It was well that he held her by the garment and not by the neck, for his hand closed with murderous convulsion, and the desire of crushing out her life was for an instant all his consciousness. "'Liea!' again burst from him. "'Day after day you have lied to me. Lire! Adulterous!'

Starting point is 10:27:24 "'I am not! I am not that!' she clung upon his arms and, drove to raise herself. The bloodless lips, the choked voice meant dread of him, but the distortion of her features was hatred and the will to resist. "'Not that! What is your word worth? The prostitute in the street is sooner to be believed. She has the honesty to say what she is. But you—' Where were you yesterday when you were not at your sisters? Where were you this afternoon?' She had nearly struggled to her feet. He thrust her down again, crushed her back, backwards until her head all but touched the floor.

Starting point is 10:28:03 "'Where were you? Tell the truth, or you shall never speak again.' "'Oh, help! Help! He will kill me!' Her cry rang through the room. Call them up. Let them come and look at you and hear what you are. Soon everyone will know. Where were you this afternoon? You were watched every step of the way from here to that place where you have made yourself a base, vile, unclean creature. I am not that. Your spies have misled you. Misled? Didn't you go to that man Barfoot's door and knock there? And because you were disappointed, didn't you wait about and go there a second time? What if I did? It doesn't mean what you think.

Starting point is 10:28:46 What? You go time after time to the private chambers of an unmarried man, a man such as that, and it means no harm. I have never been there before. "'You expect me to believe you!' Whittison cried with savage contumly. He had just loosed his hold of her, and she was upright again before him, her eyes flashing defiance, though every muscle in her frame quivered. "'When did your lives begin? Was it when you told me you had been to hear Miss Barfoot's lecture, and never went there at all?' He aimed the charge at a venture, and her face told him that his suspicion had been grounded. for how many weeks, for how many months have you been dishonouring me and yourself?

Starting point is 10:29:30 I am not guilty of what you believe, but I shan't try to defend myself. Thank Heaven this is the end of everything between us. Charge me with what you like. I am going away from you, and I hope we may never meet again. Yes, you are going, no doubt of that, but not before you have answered my questions. Whether with lies or not doesn't matter much. You shall give your own account of what you have been doing. Both panting as if after some supreme effort of their physical force, they stood and looked

Starting point is 10:29:59 at each other. Each to the other's eyes was incredibly transformed. Monica could not have imagined such brutal ferocity in her husband's face, and she herself had a wild recklessness in her eyes, a scorn and abhorrence in all the lines of her countenance, which made Wittison feel as of a stranger were before him. "'I shall answer no question whatever,' Monica replied. All I want is to leave your house, and never see you again." He regretted what he had done.

Starting point is 10:30:30 The result of the first day's espionage being a piece of evidence so incomplete, he had hoped to command himself until more solid proof of his wife's guilt were forthcoming. But jealousy was too strong for such prudence, and the sight of Monica as she uttered her falsehood made a mere madman of him. Predisposed to believe a story of this kind he could not reason as he might have done if fear of Barfoot had never entered his thoughts. The whole course of dishonour seemed so clear. He traced it from Monica's earliest meetings with Barfoot at Chelsea. Waivering between the impulse to cast off his wife with every circumstance of public shame, and the piteous desire

Starting point is 10:31:06 to arrest her on her path of destruction, he rushed into a middle course, compatible with neither of these intentions. If at this stage he chose to tell Monica what had come to his knowledge, it should have been done with the sternest calm, with dignity capable of shaming her guilt. As it was, he had spoiled his chances in every direction. Perhaps Monica understood this. He had begun to esteem her a mistress in craft and intrigue. "'You say you were never at that man's rooms before to-day,' he asked in a lower voice. "'What I have said you must take the trouble to recollect. I shall answer no question.' Again the impulse assailed him to ring, confront.

Starting point is 10:31:47 confession from her by terror. He took a step forward, the demon in his face. Monica in that moment leapt past him, and reached the door of the room before he could stop her. "'Stay where you are,' she cried. "'If your hands touch me again I shall call for help until someone comes up. I won't endure your touch.' "'Do you pretend you are innocent of any crime against me?' "'I am not what you called me. Explain everything as you like. I will explain nothing. I want only to be free of you." She opened the door, rapidly crossed the landing, and went upstairs. Feeling it was useless to follow, Whittison allowed the door to remain wide and waited.

Starting point is 10:32:29 Five minutes passed, and Monica came down again, dressed for leaving the house. "'Where are you going?' he asked, stepping out of the room to intercept her. "'It is nothing to you. I am going away.' They subdued their voices, which might else have been audible to the search. servants below." "'No, that you shall not!' He stepped forward to block the head of the stairs, but again Monica was too quick for him. She fled down and across the hall and to the house door. Only there, as she was arrested by the difficulty of drawing back the two latches, did Whitteson

Starting point is 10:33:03 overtake her. "'Make what scandal you like! You don't leave this house!' His tones were violent rather than resolute. What could he do? If Monica persisted, what means—' had he of confining her to the house, short of carrying her by main force to an upper room and there locking her in. He knew that his courage would not sustain him through such a task

Starting point is 10:33:25 as this. "'For scandal I can nothing,' was her reply. "'One way or another I will leave the house.' "'Where are you going?' "'To my sisters.' His hand on the door, Whittison stood as if determined in opposition. But her will was stronger than his. Only by homicide can a man maintain his dignity in a situation of this kind. Whittison could not kill his wife, and every moment that he stood there made him more ridiculous, more contemptible. He turned back into the hall and reached his hat. Whilst he was doing so, Monica opened the door. Heavy rain was falling, but she paid no heed. In a moment Wittison hastened after her, careless he too of the descending floods. Her way was towards the railway station,

Starting point is 10:34:12 But the driver of a cab, chancing to attract her notice, she accepted the man's offer, and bade him drive to Lavender Hill. On the first opportunity Wittison took like refuge from the rain, and was driven in the same direction. He alighted not far from Mrs. Coyneby's house. That Monica had come hither he felt no doubt, but he would presently make sure of it. As it still rained he sought shelter in a public house, where he quenched a painful thirst, and then satisfied his hunger with such primitive foods as a licensed victualer is disposed to vend. It was nearing eleven o'clock, and he had neither eaten nor drunk since lunchtime. After that he walked to Mrs. Coinsby's and knocked at the door. The landlady came. "'Will you please tell me?' he asked, whether Mrs. Whitterson is here.

Starting point is 10:35:00 The sly curiosity of the woman's face informed him at once that she saw something unusual in these circumstances. "'Yes, sir,' Mrs. Whitterson. is with his sister?" Thank you." Without another word he departed, but went only a short distance, and until midnight kept Mrs. Coinsby's door in view. The rain fell, the air was raw, shelterless and often shivering with fever, Wittison

Starting point is 10:35:25 walked the pavement with a constable's regularity. He could not but remember the many nights when he thus kept watch in Walworth Road and in Rutland Street, with jealousy then too burning in his heart, but also with amorous ardors, never ever again to be revived, a little more than twelve months ago, and he had waited, longed for marriage through half a lifetime." End of Chapter twenty-four. Chapter 25 of the Odd Women. This Librevox recording is in the public domain.

Starting point is 10:36:04 Recording by Elizabeth Clet. The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 25 The Fate of the Ideal Rota's week at the seashore was spoilt by uncertain weather. Only two days of abiding sunshine, for the rest mere fitful gleams across the sky heaped with storm-clouds. Over Wastdale hung a black canopy. From scoffel came mutterings of thunder, and on the last night of the week, when Monica fled from her home in pelting rain, tempest broke upon the mountains and the sea. Wakeful and until early morning, and at times watching the sky from her inland-looking window, Rhoda saw

Starting point is 10:36:48 the rocky heights that frown upon Wastwater, illuminated by lightning flare of such intensity and duration, that miles of distance were annihilated, and it seemed but a step to these stern crags and precipices. Sunday began with rain, but also with promise of better things. Far over the sea was a broad expanse of blue, and before long the foam of the fall of and tide glistened in strong, hopeful rays. Rhoda wandered about the shore toward St. B's head. A broad stream flowing in the sea stopped her progress before she had gone very far.

Starting point is 10:37:26 The only way of crossing it was to go up onto the line of railway, which here runs along the edge of the sands. But she had little inclination to walk further. No house, no person within sight, she sat down to gaze at the girls fishing by the little river-mouth, There screams the only sound that blended with that of the subdued breakers. On the horizon lay a long, low shape that might have been mistaken for a cloud, though it resembled land. It was the Isle of Man. In an hour or two the outline had grown much clearer.

Starting point is 10:37:59 The heights and hollows were no longer doubtful. In the north became visible another remote and hilly tract. It was the coast of Scotland beyond Solway Firth. These distant objects acted as incentives to Rhoda's imagination. She heard Everard Barfoot's voice as he talked of travel, of the Orient express. That joy of freedom he had offered her. Perhaps he was now very near her, anxious to repeat his offer. If he carried out the project suggested at their last interview she would see him to-day

Starting point is 10:38:32 or to-morrow morning. Then she must make her choice. To have a day's walk with him among the mountains would be practicable. practically deciding. But for what? If she rejected his proposal of a free union, was he prepared to marry her in legal form? Yes, she had enough power over him for that. But how would it affect his thought of her? Constraining him to legal marriage, would she not lower herself in his estimation, and make the endurance of his love less probable? Barfoot was not a man to accept with genuine satisfaction even the appearance of bondage.

Starting point is 10:39:09 And more likely than not, his love of her depended upon the belief that in her he had found a woman capable of regarding life from his own point of view—a woman who, when she once loved, would be scornful of the formalities clung to by feeble minds. He would yield to her if she demanded forms, but afterwards, when passion had subsided. A week had been none too long to ponder these considerations by themselves, but they were complicated with doubts of a more disturbing nature. Her mind could not free itself from the thought of Monica. That Mrs. Whittison was not always truthful with her husband she had absolute proof. Whether that supported her fear of an intimacy between Monica and Everard she was unable to determine.

Starting point is 10:39:55 The grounds of suspicion seemed to her very grave—so grave, that during her first day or two in Cumberland she had all but renounced the hopes long secretly fostered. She knew herself well enough to understand how jealousy might wreck her life, even if it were only retrospective. If she married Barfoot—forms or none—that question in no way touched this other—she would demand of him a flawless faith. Her pride revolted against the thought of possessing only a share in his devotion. The moment that any faithlessness came to her knowledge she would leave him, perforce, inevitably, and what miseries were then before her. Was flawless faith possible to Everard Barfoot?

Starting point is 10:40:38 His cousin would ridicule the hope of any such thing. Or so, Rhoda believed. A conventional woman would, of course, see the completest evidence of his untrustworthiness and his dislike of legal marriage. But Rhoda knew the idleness of this argument. If love did not hold him, assuredly the forms of marriage could be no restraint upon Everard. Married ten times over, he would still deem himself absolutely free from any obligation

Starting point is 10:41:03 save that of love. Yet how did he think of that obligation? He might hold it perfectly compatible with the indulgence of casual impulse. And this, which he suspected to be the view of every man, Rhoda had no power of tolerating. It must be all or nothing, whole faith, or none whatsoever. In the afternoon she suffered from impatient expectancy.

Starting point is 10:41:29 If Barfoot came to-day, she imagined him somewhere in the neighbourhood, approaching sea-scale, as the time of his appointment drew near, would he call at her lodgings? The address she had not given him, but doubtless he had obtained it from his cousin. Perhaps he would prefer to meet her unexpectedly—not a difficult thing in this little place, with its handful of residents and visitors. Certain it was she desired his arrival. Her heart leapt with joy in the thought that this very evening might bring him.

Starting point is 10:41:58 She wished to study him under new conditions, and possibly to talk with him even more frankly than ever yet, for there would be opportunity enough. About six o'clock a train coming from the south stopped at the station, which was visible from Rhoda's sitting-room window. She had been waiting for this moment. She could not go to the station, and did not venture even to wait anywhere in sight of the exit. Whether any passenger had alighted must remain uncertain. If Everard had arrived by this train, doubtless he would go to the hotel, which stood only a few yards from the line. He would be able to take a meal, and presently come forth. Having allowed half an hour to elapse, she dressed

Starting point is 10:42:39 and walked shoreward. Sea-scale has no street, no shops, only two or three short rows of houses irregularly placed on the rising ground above the beach. To cross the intervening railway, Rhoda could either pass through the little station, in which case she would also pass the hotel and be observable from its chief windows, or descend by a longer road which led under a bridge, and in this way avoid the hotel altogether. She took the former route. On the sands were a few scattered people, and some children subdued to Sunday decorum.

Starting point is 10:43:12 The tide was rising. She went down to the nearest tract of hard sand, and stood there for a long time, a soft western breeze playing upon her face. If barfoot were here, he would now be coming out to look for her. From a distance he might not recognize her figure, clad as she was in a costume such as he had never before seen her wearing. She might venture now

Starting point is 10:43:35 to walk up towards the dry, white sand-heaps, where the little convolvulus grew in abundance, and other flowers of which she neither knew nor cared to learn the names. Scarcely had she turned, when she saw Everard approaching, still far off, but unmistakable. He signalled by taking off his hat, and quickly was beside her. "'Did you know me before I happened to look round?' She asked laughingly. Of course I did. Up there by the station I caught sight of you. Who else bears herself as you do, with splendid disdain of common mortals?

Starting point is 10:44:11 Please don't make me think that my movements are ridiculous. They are superb. The sea has already touched your cheeks. But I am afraid you have had abominable weather. Yes, rather bad. But there's hope to-day. Where do you come from? By train, only from Karnford.

Starting point is 10:44:29 I left London yesterday morning, and stopped at Morecambe. Some people I know are there. As trains were awkward to-day I drove from Morecambe to Carnforth. Did you expect me?" I thought that you might come, as he spoke of it. How I have got through the week I couldn't tell you. I should have been here days ago, but I was afraid. Let us go nearer to the sea. I was afraid of making you angry." "'It's better to keep one's word.' "'Of course it is. And I am all the the more delighted to be with you for the miserable week of waiting. Have you bathed?

Starting point is 10:45:04 Once or twice. I had a swim this morning before breakfast in pouring rain. Now you can't swim. No, I can't. But why are you sure about it? Only because it's so rare for any girl to learn swimming. A man who can't swim is only half the man he might be, and to a woman I should think it must be of even more benefit.

Starting point is 10:45:24 As in everything else, women are trampled by their clothes. to be able to get rid of them, and to move about with free and brave exertion of all the body, must tend to every kind of health, physical, mental, and mortal. "'Yes, I quite believe that,' said Rhoda, gazing at the sea. "'I spoke rather exultantly, didn't I? I like to feel myself superior to you in some things. You have so often pointed out to me what a paltry, ineffectual creature I am.' "'I don't remember ever using those words, or implying them.'

Starting point is 10:45:57 How does the day stand with you?" asked Everard in the tone of perfect comradeship. Have you still to dine? My dining is a very simple matter. It happens at one o'clock. About nine I shall have supper. Let us walk a little, then. And may I smoke? Why not?"

Starting point is 10:46:17 Everard lit a cigar, and as the tide drove them back, they moved eventually to the higher ground, went there was a fine view of the mountains, rich in evening colours. "'Tomorrow you leave here?' "'Yes,' Roda answered. "'I shall go by railway to Coniston, and walk from there towards Helvillan, as you suggested.' "'I have something else to propose. A man I talked to in the train told me of a fine walk in this neighbourhood. From ravenglass, just below here, this little line runs up to Eskdale to a terminus at the foot of Scoffel, a place called Boot. From boot one can walk either over the top of Scorffle, or by a lower track to Worcester It's very grand, wild country, especially the last part, the going down to Wastwater, and

Starting point is 10:47:04 not many miles in all. Suppose we have that walk to-morrow. From Wastdale we could drive back to sea-scale in the evening, and then the next day—and just as you like." Are you quite sure about the distances? Quite. I have the ordnance map in my pocket. Let me show you." He spread the map on the top of a wall, and they stood side by side inspecting it.

Starting point is 10:47:27 We must take something to eat. I'll provide for that. And at the Wastardtale Head Hotel we can have dinner—about three or four, probably. It would be enjoyable, wouldn't it? If it doesn't rain? Well, let's hope it won't. As we go back we can look out the trains at the station. No doubt there's one soon after breakfast. They're rambling, with talk in a strain of easy friendliness, brought them back to sea-scale half an hour after sunset, which was of a kind that seemed to promise well for the morrow. "'Weren't you come out again after supper?' Barfoot asked. "'Not again to-night.' "'For quarter of an hour,' he urged, just down to the sea and back. "'I have been walking all day. I shall be glad to rest and read.' "'Very well. To-morrow morning.'

Starting point is 10:48:15 Having discovered the train which would take them to Ravenglass and connect with one on the Eskdale line, they agreed to meet at the station. Barfoot was to bring with him such refreshment as would be necessary. Their hopes for the weather had complete fulfilment. The only fear was lest the sun's heat might be oppressive, but this anxiety could be cheerfully borne. Slung over his shoulders, Barfoot had a small forage-bag which gave him matter for talk on the railway journey. It had been his companion in many parts of the world, and had held strange kinds of food.

Starting point is 10:48:49 The journey up Eskdale, from Ravenglass to boot, is by a miniature railway with the the oddest little engine and a carriage or two of primitive simplicity. At each station on the upward winding track—stations represented only by a wooden shed like a tool-house—the guard jumps down and acts as booking-clerk—if passengers there be desirous of booking. In a few miles the scenery changes from beauty to grandeur, and at the terminus no further steaming would be possible, for the great flank of scoffel bars the way. Everard and his companion began their climb through the pretty straggling

Starting point is 10:49:24 village of Boot. A mountain torrent roared by the wayside, and the course they had marked upon the map showed that they must follow this stream for some miles up to the Tarn where it originated. Houses, human beings, and even trodden paths they soon left behind, coming out onto a vast moorland, with hill's summits near and far. Scoffal they could not hope to ascend. With the walk that lay before them, it was enough to make a way over one of his huge shoulders. If your strength fails, said Everard merrily, when for an hour they had been plodding through grey solitudes. There is no human help.

Starting point is 10:50:01 I should have to choose between carrying you back to boot, or on to Wastdale. My strength is not likely to fail sooner than yours, was the laughing reply. I have chicken sandwiches, and wine that maketh glad the heart of man. Tell me when hunger overcomes you. I should think we had better make our halt at Boermore Tarn. That, indeed, proved to be the convenient resting-place, a wild spot, a hollow amid the rolling expanse of moorland, its little lake of black water glistening under the midday sun.

Starting point is 10:50:34 And here stood a shepherd's cottage, the only habitation they had seen since leaving boot. Somewhat uncertain about the course to be henceforth followed, they made inquiry at this cottage, and a woman who appeared to be quite alone gave them the needful direction. Thus at ease in mind they crossed the bridge at the foot of the tarn, and just beyond it found a spot suitable for repose. Everard brought forth his sandwiches and his flask of wine, moreover a wine-glass, which was for Rhoda's use. They ate and drank festively.

Starting point is 10:51:05 "'Now this is just what I have enjoyed in imagination for a year or more,' said Barfoot, when the luncheon was over, and he lay propped upon his pillow, gazing at Rhoda's fine eyes and her sun-warmed cheeks. an ideal realized for once in one's life, a perfect moment. "'Don't you like the scent of burning peat from that cottage?' "'Yes. I like everything about us, in heaven and earth. And most of all I like your companionship, Rhoda.' She could not resent this first use of her Christian name. It was so natural, so inevitable, yet she moved her head as if with a slight annoyance.

Starting point is 10:51:44 "'Is mine as agreeable to you?' he added, stroking the back of her hand with a spray of Heather. Or do you just tolerate me out of good nature?" I have liked your companionship all the way from sea-scale. Don't disturb my enjoyment of it for the rest of the way. That would be a misfortune indeed. The whole day shall be perfect, not a note of discord. But I must have liberty to say what comes into my mind, and when you don't choose to answer, I shall respect your silence. Wouldn't you like to smoke a cigar before we start again?"

Starting point is 10:52:18 Yes, but I like still better not to. The scent of peat is pleasanter to you than that of tobacco. Oblige me by lighting the cigar. If you command!—he did her bidding. The whole day shall be perfect—a delightful dinner at the inn, a drive to sea-scale, an hour or two of rest, and then one more quiet talk by the sea at nightfall. All but the last I shall be too tired. No, I must have that hour of talk by the sea. You are free to answer me or not, but your present you must grant me.

Starting point is 10:52:56 We are in an ideal world, remember? We care nothing for all the sons and daughters of men. You and I will spend this one day together between cloudless heaven and silent earth, a memory for lifetime. At nightfall you will come out again, and meet me down by the sea, where you stood when I first saw you yesterday." Roda made no reply. She looked away from him at the deep black water. "'What an opportunity,' he went on, raising his hand to point at the cottage, for saying

Starting point is 10:53:27 the silliest of conceivable things. What might that be, I wonder? Why, that to dwell there together for the rest of our lives would be supreme felicity. You know the kind of man that would say that. Not personally, thank goodness. A week, a month even with weather such as this. Nay, with a storm for variety. Clouds from the top of scourful falling thick about us, a fierce wind shrieking across the tarn, sheets and torrents and floods of rain beating

Starting point is 10:53:58 upon our roof, and you and I by the peat-fire. With a good supply of books old and new, I can picture it for three months, for half a year. Be on your guard, remember that kind of man. I am in no danger. There is a vast difference between six months and all one's life. When the half-year was over we would leave England. By the Orient Express? They laughed together, rode a-colouring, for the words that had escaped her meant too much for mere jest.

Starting point is 10:54:32 By the Orient Express, we would have a house by the Bosphorus for the next half-year, and contrast our emotions with those we had known by Bourmore-Tarn. Think what a rich year of life that would make. much we should have learnt from nature, and from each other." And how dreadfully tired of each other we should be?" Barfoot looked keenly at her. He could not with certainty read her countenance. "'You mean that?' he asked. "'You know it is true.'

Starting point is 10:55:02 "'Hush! The day is to be perfect. I won't admit that we could ever tire of each other with reasonable variety of circumstance. You to me are infinitely interesting. And I believe that I might become so to you?" He did not allow himself to vary from this tone of fanciful speculation, suited to the idle hour. Rhoda said very little. Her remarks were generally a purposed interruption of Everard's theme. When the cigar was smoked out they rose, and set forth again. The latter half of their walk proved the most interesting, for they were expectant of the view down upon Wastdale. A bold summit came in sight—dark, desolate—which they just—which they just—and

Starting point is 10:55:43 to be great Gable, and when they had pressed on eagerly for another mile, the valley opened beneath them with such striking suddenness that they stopped on the instant and glanced at each other in silence. From a noble height they looked down upon wast-water, sternest and blackest of the lakes, on the fields and copses of the valley head with its winding stream, and the rugged gorges which lie beyond in mountain's shadow. The descent was by a path which in winter becomes the bed of a torrent, steep and stony, zigzagging through a thick wood. Here, and when they had reached the level road leading

Starting point is 10:56:18 into the village, their talk was in the same natural, light-hearted strain as before they rested. So at the inn where they dined, and during their drive homewards, by the dark lake with its woods and precipices, out into the country of green hills, and then threw Gossforth on the long road descending seaward. Since their early departure, scarcely a cloud had passed over the sun. A perfect day. They alighted before reaching sea-scale. Barfoot discharged his debt to the driver, who went on to bait at the hotel, and walked with Rhoda for the last quarter of a mile. This was his own idea. Roda made no remark, but approved his discretion. "'It is six o'clock,' said Everard after a short silence. "'You remember your arrangement?' At eight, down on the shore. I should be much more comfortable in the arm-chair with a book.

Starting point is 10:57:11 Oh, you've had enough of books. It's time to live. It's time to rest. Are you so very tired? Poor girl. The day has been rather too much for you. Roda laughed. I could walk back again to wast water if it were necessary. Of course, I knew that. You are magnificent. At eight o'clock then.

Starting point is 10:57:35 Nothing more was said on the subject. When, inside of Roda's lodgings, they parted without heaven. handshaking. Before eight, Everard was straying about the beach, watching the sun go down in splendor. He smiled to himself frequently. The hour had come for his last trial of Rhoda, and he felt some confidence as to the result. If her mettle endured his test, if she declared herself willing not only to abandon her avowal ideal of life, but to defy the world's opinion by becoming his wife without forms

Starting point is 10:58:06 of mutual bondage, she was the woman he had imagined, and by her self-reuxed. by her side he would go cheerfully on his way as a married man. Legally married—the proposal of free union was to be a test only. Loving her as he had never thought to love, there still remained with him so much of the temper in which he first wooed her that he could be satisfied with nothing short of unconditional surrender. Delighting in her independence of mind, he still desired to see her in complete subjugation to him, to inspire her with unreflecting passion. Tame consent to matrimony was an everyday experience.

Starting point is 10:58:40 Agnes Brissenden, he felt sure, would marry him whenever he chose to ask her, and would make one of the best wives conceivable. But of Rhoda none, he expected and demanded more than this. She must rise far above the level of ordinary, intelligent women. She must manifest in absolute confidence in him. That was the true significance of his present motives. The censures and suspicions which she had not scrupled to confess in plain words must linger in no corner of her mind.

Starting point is 10:59:09 His heart throbbed with impatience for her coming. Come, she would. It was not in Roda's nature to play tricks. If she had not meant to meet him, she would have said so resolutely, as last night. At a few minutes past the hour he looked landward, and saw her figure against the golden sky. She came down from the sand-bank very slowly, with careless loitering steps. He moved but a little way to meet her, and then stood still. He had done his part. It was now hers to forego female privileges, to obey the constraint

Starting point is 10:59:44 of love. The Western afterglow touched her features, heightening the beauty Everard had learnt to see in them. Still she loitered, stooping to pick up a piece of seaweed, but still he kept his place, motionless, and she came nearer. "'Did you see the light of sunset on the mountains?' "'Yes,' he replied. "'There has been no such evening since I can. came." "'And you wanted to sit at home with a book. That was no close for a perfect day.'

Starting point is 11:00:14 "'I found a letter from your cousin. She was with her friend the Goodalls yesterday.' "'The Goodalls? I used to know them.' "'Yes.' The word was uttered with significance. Everard understood the illusion, but did not care to show that he did. "'How does Mary get on without you?'

Starting point is 11:00:34 "'There's no difficulty.' Has she any one capable of taking your place? Yes, Miss Vespa can do all that's necessary. Even to inspiring the girls with zeal for an independent life? Perhaps even that. They went along by the waves in the warm-coloured twilight until the houses of sea-scale were hidden. Then Everard stopped.

Starting point is 11:00:56 "'To-morrow we go to Coniston,' he said, smiling as he stood before her. "'You are going?' "'Do you think I can leave you?' Roda's eyes fell. She held the long strip of seaweed with both hands and tightened it. Do you wish me to leave you?" he added. You mean that we ought to go through the lakes together, as we have been to-day?" No, I don't mean that.

Starting point is 11:01:22 Roda took a few steps onward, so that he remained standing behind. Another moment and his arms had folded about her, his lips were on hers. She did not resist. His embrace grew stronger, and he pressed kiss after kiss upon her mouth. With exquisite delight he saw the deep crimson flush that transfigured her countenance, saw her look for one instant into his eyes, and was conscious of the triumphant gleam she met there. "'Do you remember my saying in the letter how I hunger to taste your lips?

Starting point is 11:01:54 I don't know how I have refrained so long.' "'What is your love worth?' asked Rhoda, speaking with a great effort. She had dropped the seaweed, and one of her hands rested upon his shoulder, with a slight propelling pressure. "'Worth your whole life?' he answered, with a low, glad laugh. "'That is what I doubt. Convince me of that?' "'Convince you, with more kisses. But what is your love worth?' "'Perhaps more than you yet understand. Perhaps more than you can understand.'

Starting point is 11:02:30 "'I will believe that, Rhoda. I know at all event that it is something of inestimable price. The knowledge has grown in me for a year and more. Let me stand away from you again. There is something more to be said before—' No, let me be quite apart from you.' He released her after one more curse. "'Will you answer me a question with perfect truthfulness?' Her voice was not quite steady, but she succeeded in looking at him with unflinching eyes.

Starting point is 11:02:59 Yes, I will answer you any question. That is spoken like a man. Tell me, then, is there at this moment any woman living who has a claim upon you—a moral claim? No such woman exists. But—do we speak the same language? Surely, he answered with great earnestness. There is no woman to whom I am bound by any kind of obligation.

Starting point is 11:03:28 A long wave rolled up, broke and retreated, whilst Rhoda stood in silent uncertainty. I must put the question in another way. During the past month, the past three months, have you made profession of love? Have you even pretended love to any woman? To know woman whatever, he answered firmly. That satisfies me. If I knew what is in your mind! exclaimed Everard, laughing.

Starting point is 11:03:56 What sort of life have you imagined for me? Is this the result of Mary's talk? Not immediately. Still, she planted the suspicion. Believe me, you have been altogether mistaken. I never was the kind of man Mary thought me. Someday you shall understand more about it. In the meantime, my word must be enough. I have no thought of love for any woman but you. Did I frighten you with those joking confessions in my letters? I wrote them purposely, as you must have seen. The mean, paltry jealousies of women such as one meets every day are so hateful to me.

Starting point is 11:04:34 They argue such a lack of brains. If I were so unfortunate as to love a woman who looked sour when I praised a beautiful face, I would snap the bond between us like a bit of thread. But you are not one of those poor creatures.' He looked at her with some gravity. "'Should you think me a poor creature if I resented any kind of unfaithfulness, whether love in any noble sense had part in it or not?' No, that is the reasonable understanding between man and wife.

Starting point is 11:05:03 If I exact fidelity from you, and certainly I should, I must consider myself under the same obligation. You say man or wife. Do you say it with the ordinary meaning? Not as it applies to us. You know what I mean when I ask you to be my wife. If we cannot trust each other without legal bonds, any union between us would be unjustified. Suppressing the agitation which he felt, he awaited her answer. They could still read each other's faces perfectly in a pale yellow light from across the sea. Murdo's manifested an intense conflict. After all, you doubt of your love for me, said Barfoot quietly.

Starting point is 11:05:47 That was not her doubt. She loved with passion, allowing herself to indulge the luxurious emotion as never yet. She longed once more to feel his arms about. about her. But even thus she could consider the vast issues of the step to which she was urged. The temptation to yield was very strong, for it seemed to her an easier and a nobler thing to proclaim her emancipation from social statutes than to announce before her friends the simple news that she was about to marry. That announcement would excite something more than surprise. Mary Barfoot could not but smile with gentle irony. Other women would laugh among

Starting point is 11:06:23 themselves, the girls would feel a shock, as at the fall of one who had made heroic pretenses. A sure way of averting this ridicule was by furnishing occasion for much graver astonishment. If it became known that she had taken a step such as few women would have dared to take, deliberately setting an example of new liberty, her position in the eyes of all who knew her remained one of proud independence. Rhoda's character was specially exposed to the temptation of such a motive. For months this argument had been in her mind. mind, again and again she decided that the sensational step was preferable to a commonplace renunciation

Starting point is 11:06:59 of all she had so vehemently preached. And now that the moment of actual choice had come, she felt able to dare everything. As far as the danger concerned herself, but she perceived more strongly than hitherto that not only her future was involved, how would such a practical heresy affect Everard's position? She uttered this thought. Are you willing, for the sake of this idea, to abandon all society but that of the very few people who would approve or tolerate what you have done?" I look upon the thing in this way. We are not called upon to declare our principles wherever we go. If we regard each other as married, why we are married? I am no Cahote, hoping to convert the world. It is between you and me, our own sense of what is reasonable and dignified. But you would not make it a mere deception. Mary would, of course, be told, and anyone else you like." She believed him entirely serious.

Starting point is 11:07:58 Another woman might have suspected that he was merely trying her courage, either to assure himself of her love, or to gratify his vanity. But Rhoda's idealism enabled her to take him literally. She herself had for years maintained an exaggerated standard of duty and merit. Desirous of seeing Everard in a nobler light than hitherto she endeavoured to regard his scruple against formal wedlock as worthy of all respect." "'I can't answer you at once,' she said, half turning away. "'You must. Here and at once.'

Starting point is 11:08:31 The one word of assent would have satisfied him. This he obstinately required. He believed that it would confirm his love beyond any other satisfaction she could render him. He must be able to regard her as magnanimous, a woman who had proved herself worth living or dying for, and he must have the joy of subduing her to his will." "'No,' said Rhoda firmly, "'I can't answer you to-night. I can't decide so suddenly.' This was disingenuous, and she felt humiliated by her subterfuge. Anything but a sudden decision was asked of her, before leaving Chelsea she had foreseen

Starting point is 11:09:07 this moment, and had made preparations for the possibility of never returning to Miss Barfoot's house, knowing the nature of the proposal that would be offered to her. But the practical resolve needed a greater effort than she had imagined. Above all she feared an ignominious failure of purpose after her word was given. That would belittle her in Everard's eyes, and so shame her in her own that all hope of happiness and marriage must be at an end. You are still doubtful of me, Rhoda. He took her hand and again drew her close.

Starting point is 11:09:39 But she refused her lips. Or are you doubtful of your own love? No. If I understand what love me. means, I love you." Then give me the kiss I am waiting for. You have not kissed me yet. I can't, until I am sure of myself, of my readiness."

Starting point is 11:09:58 Her broken words betrayed the passion with which she was struggling. Everard felt her tremble against his side. "'Give me your hand,' he whispered. The left hand. Before she could guess his purpose he had slipped a ring upon her finger, a marriage-ring. woulda started away from him, and at once drew off the perilous symbol. "'No, that proves to me I can't. What should we gain?' You see, you dare not be quite consistent. It's only deceiving the people who don't know us.

Starting point is 11:10:31 But I have explained it to you. The consistency is in ourselves, our own minds. Take it back. Custom is too strong for us. We should only play it defying it. Take it back, or I shall drop it on the sand." Profoundly mortified, Everard restored the gold circlet to its hiding-place, and stood gazing at the dim horizon. Some moments passed, then he heard his name murmured. He did not look round. Everard. Dearest! Was that Rhoda's voice, so low, tender, caressing? It thrilled him, and with a silent laugh of scorn at his own folly he turned to her, every thought burnt up in passion.

Starting point is 11:11:12 Will you kiss me?" For an answer she laid her hands on his shoulders and gazed at him. Barfoot understood. He smiled constrainedly, and said in a low voice, "'You wish for that old idle form?' Not the religious form, which has no meaning for either of us. But—' You've been living here seven or eight days.

Starting point is 11:11:38 Stay till the fifteenth. Then we can get a licence from the registrar of the district. Does that please you?' Her eyes made reply. "'Do you love me any the less, Everard?' "'Kiss me.' She did, and consciousness was lost for them as their mouths clung together, and their hearts throbbed like one.

Starting point is 11:11:59 "'Isn't it better?' Rhoda asked as they walked back in the darkness. "'Won't it make our life so much simpler and happier?' "'Perhaps.' "'You know it will,' she laughed joyously, trying to meet his look. Perhaps you are right. I shall let know and hear of it until—

Starting point is 11:12:18 Then let us go abroad. You dare not face Mary. I dare if you wish it. Of course she will laugh at me. They will all laugh at me. Why, you may laugh as well. But you have spoilt my life, you know. Such a grand life it might have been.

Starting point is 11:12:35 Why did you come and interfere with me? And you have been so terribly obstinate? Of course. That's my nature. But after all I have been weak. Yielding in one point that didn't matter to you at all. It was the only way of making sure that you loved me. Barfoot laughed slightingly.

Starting point is 11:12:53 And what if I needed the other proof that you loved me? End of Chapter 25. Chapter 26 of the Odd Women. This Libervox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette. The Odd Women. Gissing. Chapter 26 The Un Ideal Tested And neither was content. Barfoot, over his cigar and glass of whiskey at the hotel,

Starting point is 11:13:27 fell into a mood of chagrin. The woman he loved would be his, and there was matter enough for ardent imagination in the indulgence of that thought, but his temper disturbed him. After all, he had not triumphed. As usual, the woman had her way. She played upon his senses, and made him her obedient slave. To prolong the conflict would have availed nothing. Roda, doubtless, was in part actuated by the desire to conquer, and she knew her power over him. So it was a mere repetition of the old story, a marriage like any other. And how would it result? She had great qualities, but there was not much in her that he must subdue, reform, if they were really to spend their lives to do.

Starting point is 11:14:13 together. Her energy of domination perhaps excelled his. Such a woman might be unable to concede him the liberty in marriage which, theoretically, she granted to be just. Perhaps she would torment him with restless jealousies, suspecting on every trivial occasion an infringement of her right. From that point of view it would have been far wiser to persist in rejecting legal marriage, that her dependence upon him might be more complete. Later, if all went well, the concession would have been made, if, for instance, she became a mother. But then returned the exasperating thought that Rhoda had overcome his will. Was not that and beginning of evil augury? To be sure, after marriage their relations would be different. He would not then be at the mercy

Starting point is 11:15:00 of his senses. But how miserable to anticipate a long, perhaps bitter struggle for predominance! After all that could hardly come about! The commencement of any such discord would be the signal for separation. His wealth ensured his freedom. He was not like the poor devils who must perforce live with an intolerable woman because they cannot support themselves and their families in different places. Need he entertained that worst of fears, the dread that his independence might fail him, subdued by his wife's will? Free, as he had boasted himself from lover's silliness, he had magnified, Rhoda's image. She was not the glorious rebel he had pictured. Like any other woman, she mistrusted her love without the sanction of society.

Starting point is 11:15:46 Well, that was something relinquished, lost. Marriage would, after all, be a compromise. He had not found his ideal, though in these days it assuredly existed. And Rhoda, sitting late in the little lodging-house parlor, visited her soul with questionings no less troublesome. Everard was not satisfied with her. He had yielded, perhaps more than half-contemptive. to what he thought of feminine weakness. In going with her to the registrar's office he would

Starting point is 11:16:17 feel himself to be acting an ignoble part. Was it not a bad beginning to rule him against his conscience? She had triumphed splendidly. In the world's eyes, this marriage of hers was far better than any she could reasonably have hoped, and her heart approved it with rapture. At a stage in life when she had sternly reconciled herself never to know a man's love, this love had sought her with a passionate persistency, of which even a beautiful young girl might feel proud. She had no beauty. She was loved for her mind, her very self. But must not Everard's conception of her have suffered? In winning her, had he obtained the woman of his desire? Why was she not more politic? Would it not have been possible to gratify him, and yet to gain his consent to legal marriage?

Starting point is 11:17:06 By first of all complying, she would have seemed to confirm all he believed of her. And then, his ardor at height, how simple to point out to him, without entreaty, without show of much concern, that by neglecting the formalities they gained absolutely nothing! Artifice of that kind was perhaps demanded by the mere circumstances. Possibly he himself would have welcomed it, after the grateful sense of inspiring such complete devotion. It is the woman's part to exercise tact she had proved herself lamentably deficient in that quality. Tomorrow she must study his manner. If she discerned any serious change, any grave indication of disappointment.

Starting point is 11:17:47 What was her life to be? At first they would travel together, but before long it might be necessary to have a settled home, and what then would be her social position, her duties and pleasures? Housekeeping, mere domesticities, could never occupy her for more than the smallest possible part of each day. Having lost one purpose in life, dignified, absorbing, likely to extend its sphere as time went on, what other could she hope to substitute for it? Love of husband, perhaps of child.

Starting point is 11:18:20 There must be more than that. Rhoda did not deceive herself as to the requirements of her nature. Practical activity in some intellectual undertaking, a share, nay, leadership in some movement, contact with the revolutionary life of her time, The impulses of her heart once satisfied, these things would again claim her. But how, if Everard, resisted such tendencies? Was he, in truth, capable of respecting her individuality? Or would his strong instinct of lordship urge him to direct his wife as a dependent,

Starting point is 11:18:52 to impose upon her his own view of things? She doubted whether he had much genuine sympathy with woman's emancipation as she understood it. Yet in no particular had her convictions changed, nor would they change. She herself was no longer one of the odd women. Fortune had or seemed to have been kind to her. Nonetheless, her sense of a mission remained. No longer an example of perfect female independence, and unable, therefore, to use the same language as before, she might illustrate woman's claim of equality in marriage, if her experience proved no obstacle.

Starting point is 11:19:29 Next morning, as had been agreed, they met at some distance from sea-scale, and spent two or three hours together. There was little danger in observation unless by a casual peasant, for the most part their privacy could not have been more secure in a locked chamber. Lest curiosity should be excited by his making inquiries at the hotel, Barfoot proposed to walk over to Gossforth, the nearest town, this afternoon, and learn where the registrar for the locality of C-scale might be found. By neither was allusion made to their difference of last evening, but Rode had distressed herself by imagining a diminished fervour in her companion. He seemed unusually silent and meditative,

Starting point is 11:20:08 and was content to hold her hand now and then. "'Shall you stay here all the week?' she inquired. "'If you wish me to.' "'You will find it wearisome.' "'Impossible with you here. But if I run up to London for a day or two it might be better. There are preparations. We shall go first of all to my rooms.

Starting point is 11:20:28 I would rather not have stayed in London.' I thought you might wish to make me. make purchases. Let us go to some other town, and spend a few days there before leaving England." Very well, Manchester or Birmingham." "'You speak rather impatiently,' said Rhoda, looking at him with an uneasy smile. "'Let it be London, if you prefer.' "'On no account.

Starting point is 11:20:51 It's all indifferent to me, so long as we get safely away together. Every man is impatient of these preliminaries. Yes, in that case I must of course go up to London. "'Tomorrow and back on Saturday?' A shower of rain caused them some discontent. Through the afternoon it still rained at intervals, whilst Barfoot was discharging his business at Gossforth. He was to see Rhoda again at eight o'clock, and as the time threatened to hang heavily

Starting point is 11:21:17 on his hands, he returned by a long detour, reaching the C-scale Hotel at about half-past six. No sooner had he entered, than there was delivered to him a letter, brought by messenger an hour or two ago. It surprised him to recognize Rhoda's writing on the envelope, which seemed to contain at least two sheets of note-paper. "'What now? Some whimsy?' Agitated and annoyed by the anticipation of trouble, he went apart and broke the letter open. First appeared in enclosure, a letter in his cousin Mary's writing. He turned to the other sheet and read these lines. "'I send you something that has come by paste this afternoon.

Starting point is 11:21:55 "'Please to bring it with you when you meet me at eight o'clock, if you still care to do so.' His face flushed with anger. "'What contemptible woman's folly was this? If you still care to do so?' And written in a hand that shook. If this was to be his experience of matrimonial engagement, what rubbish had Mary been communicating? "'My dear Rhoda, I have just gone through a very painful scene, and I feel bound to let you know of it without delay, as it may concern you. This evening, Monday, when I came home from Great Portland Street, Emma told me that Mr. Whittison had called, that he wished to see me as soon as possible, and would be here again at six o'clock. He came, and his appearance alarmed me. He was looking so dreadfully ill. Without preface he said, My wife has left me, she has gone to her sister, and refuses to return. This was astonishing in itself, and I wondered still more why he should come and tell me about it in so strange a way,

Starting point is 11:22:55 The explanation followed very promptly, and you may judge how I heard it. Mr. Whitterson said that his wife had been behaving very badly of late, that he had discovered several falsehood she had told him as to her employment during absences from home, in daytime and evening. Having calls for suspecting the worst, he last Saturday engaged a private detective to follow Mrs. Whitterson wherever she went. This man saw her go into the flats and bayswater where Everard lives, and knock at his door. As no one replied, she went away for a time and returned, but again found no one at home. This being at once reported to Mr. Whittison, he asked his wife where she had been that afternoon. The answer was false. She said she'd been here with me.

Starting point is 11:23:40 Thereupon he lost command of himself, and charged her with infidelity. She refused to offer any kind of explanation, but deny that she was guilty, and at once left the house. Since she is utterly refused to see him. Her sister can only report that Monica is very ill, and that she charges her husband with accusing her falsely. "'He had come to me,' he said, in unspeakable anguish and helplessness, to ask me whether I had seen anything suspicious in the relations between Monica and my cousin, when they met at this house or elsewhere.

Starting point is 11:24:09 A nice question. Of course I could only reply that it had never even occurred to me to observe them, that, to my knowledge they had met so rarely, and that I should never have dreamt of suspecting Monica. "'Yet you see she must be guilty,' he kept on repeating. "'I said no, that I thought her visit might have an innocent significance, though I couldn't suggest why she had told falsehoods. Then he inquired what I knew about Everard's present movements. I answered that I had every reason to think that he was out of town, but didn't know when he went, or when he might be expected to return. The poor man was grievously

Starting point is 11:24:44 dissatisfied. He looked at me as if I were in a base plot against him. It was an immense relief when he went away, after begging me to respect his confidence. I write very hurriedly, as you see, that I ought to write is, I think, clear, though I may be doing lamentable mischief. I cannot credit this charge against Mrs. Whitterson. There must surely be some explanation. If you have already left sea-scale, no doubt this letter will be forwarded. Ever yours, dear Rhoda, Mary Barfoot." Everard laughed bitterly. The completeness of the case against him in Rhoda's eyes must be so overwhelming that his

Starting point is 11:25:23 absolute innocence made it exasperating to have to defend himself. How indeed was he to defend himself? The story was strange enough. Could he be right in the interpretation which at once suggested itself to his mind, or perhaps to his vanity? He remembered the meeting with Mrs. Whittison near his abode on Friday. He recollected, moreover, the signs of interest in himself, which, as he now thought she had shown on previous occasions, had the poor little woman—doubtless miserable with her husband,

Starting point is 11:25:52 actually let herself fall in love with him. But even in that case what a reckless thing to do, to come to his rooms! Why, she must have been driven by a despair that blinded her to all sense of delicacy. Perhaps, had he been at home, she would have made a pretense of wishing to speak about Rhoda nun. That was imprudent behavior of his, making such a person his confidant, but he was tempted by his liking for her. By Jove! he muttered, overcome by the thought, I'm glad I was not at home. But then he had told her that he was going away on Saturday. How could she expect to find him?

Starting point is 11:26:28 The hour of her visit was not stated, probably she hoped to catch him before he left. And was her appearance in the neighborhood on Friday, her troubled aspect, to be explained as an abortive attempt to have a private interview with him? The queerest affair, and maddening in its issues. Rhoda was raging with jealousy. Well, he too would rage, and without affectation. It was strange that he almost felt glad of ground of a quarrel with Rhoda. All day he had been in an irritable temper, and so far as he could understand himself,

Starting point is 11:27:00 it was due to resentment of his last night's defeat. He thought of Rhoda as ardently as ever, but an element that was very like brutality had intruded into his emotions. That was his reason from referring to him. from caresses this morning, he could not trust himself. He would endure no absurdities. If Rhoda did not choose to accept his simple assurance, let her take the consequences. Even now, perhaps, he would bring her to her knees before him.

Starting point is 11:27:26 Let her wrong him by baseless accusation. Then it would no longer be he who sued her favor. He would whistle her down the wind, and await her penitent reappearance. Sooner or later his pride and hers, the obstinacy in their natures must battle it out. better that it should be now, before the irrevocable step had been taken. He ate his dinner with savage appetite, and drank a good deal more wine than of won't. Then he smoked until the last minute of delay that his engagement allowed. Of course she had sent the letter to the hotel because he might be unable to read it in

Starting point is 11:28:00 twilight. Wise precaution. And he was glad to have been able to think the matter over, to work himself into reasonable wrath. If ever man did well to be angry. She was, down by the edge of the waves. She would not turn to see if he were coming, he felt sure of that. Whether she heard his footsteps he could not tell.

Starting point is 11:28:21 When quite close to her, he exclaimed, "'Well, Rhoda?' She must have known of his approach, for she gave no start. She faced slowly to him. No trace of tears on her countenance. No Rhoda was above that. Gravity of the sternest that was all. "'Well,' he continued, "'what have you to say to me?'

Starting point is 11:28:42 "'I—' "'Nothing.' "'You mean that it is my business to explain what Mary has told you. "'I can't, so there's an end of it.' "'What do you mean by that?' she asked in clear, distant tones. "'Precisely what I said, Rhoda, and I am obliged to ask what you mean by this odd way of speaking to me. What has happened since we parted this morning?' Rhoda could not suppress her astonishment.

Starting point is 11:29:06 She gazed fixedly at him. If you can't explain this letter, who can? I suppose Mrs. Whitterson would be able to account for her doings. I certainly am not able to, and it seems to me that you are strangely forgetful of something that passed between us yesterday. Of what? she asked coldly, her face which was held proudly up, turning towards the sea. Evidently you accuse me of concealing something from you. Please to remember a certain plain question you asked me, and the equally equally plain answer I gave." He detected the beginning of a smile about her rigid lips.

Starting point is 11:29:42 "'I remember,' she said. "'And you can still behave to me with indignation. Surely the indignation should be on my side. You are telling me that I deceived you.' For a moment Rhoda lost her self-control. "'How can I help thinking so?' she exclaimed with a gesture of misery. "'What can this letter mean? Why should she go to your rooms?' I simply don't know, Rhoda." He preserved the show of calmness just because he saw that it provoked her to anger. "'She has never been there before?'

Starting point is 11:30:15 "'Never, to my knowledge.' Rhoda watched his face with greedy attention. She seemed to find there a confirmation of her doubts. Indeed it was impossible for her to credit his denials after what she had observed in London and the circumstances which, even before Mary's letter, had made her suspicious. When did you last see, Mrs. Whittison?' "'No, I shan't consent to be cross-examined,' replied Everard, with a disdainful smile. "'As soon as you refuse to accept my word, it's folly to ask further questions.

Starting point is 11:30:47 You don't believe me. Say it honestly, and let us understand each other.' "'I have good reason for thinking that you could explain Mrs. Whittison's behaviour if you chose.' "'Exactly. There's no misunderstanding that. And if I get angry, I am an unpardonable brute.' "'Come, now, you can't be offended if I treat you simply as my equal, Rhoda. Let me test your sincerity. Suppose I had seen you talking somewhere with some man who seemed to interest you very much, and then—' "'Today, let us say, I heard that he had called upon you when you were alone. I turn with a savage face and accuse you of grossly deceiving me, in the worst sense. What would your answer be?'

Starting point is 11:31:25 "'These are idle suppositions,' she exclaimed scornfully. "'But the case is possible, you admit. I want you to realise. what I am feeling. In touch a case is that you could only turn from me with contempt. How else can I behave to you, conscious of my innocence, yet in the nature of things unable to prove it?" Appearances are very strongly against you." That's an accident, to me quite unaccountable. If I charged you with dishonour, you would only have your word to offer in reply, so it is with me, and my word is bluntly rejected. You try me rather severely."

Starting point is 11:32:01 Roda kept silence. know what you are thinking. My character was previously none of the best. There is a prejudice against me in such a matter for your good. My record is not immaculate, nor I believe is any as this. Well, you shall hear some more plain speech, altogether man's. I have gone here and there, and have had my adventures like other men. One of them you have heard about, the story of that girl, Amy Drake, the subject of Mrs. Goodall's righteous wrath. You shall know the truth, and if it "'Defends your ears, I can't help it. The girl simply threw herself into my arms on a railway journey when we met by pure chance.' "'I don't care to hear that,' said Rhoda, turning away.

Starting point is 11:32:43 "'But you shall hear it. That story has predisposed you to believe the worst things of me. If I hold you by force, you shall hear every word of it. Mary seems to have given you mere dark hints. No, she has told me the details, I know at all.' From their point of view? Very well, that saves me a lot of narrative. What those good people didn't understand was the girl's character. They thought her a helpless, innocent. She was a—I'll spare you the word.

Starting point is 11:33:10 She simply planned to get me into her power. Thought I should be forced to marry her. It's the kind of thing that happens far oftener than you would suppose. That's the reason why men so often smile in what you would call a brutal way when certain stories are told to other men's discredit. You will have to take this into account, Rhoda, before you reach satisfactory results on the questions that you have occupied you so much. I was not in the least responsible for Amy Drake's desertion of creditable paths.

Starting point is 11:33:35 At the worst, I behaved foolishly, and knowing I had done so, knowing how thankless it was to try and clear myself at her expense, I let people say what they would. It didn't matter. And you don't believe me. I can see you don't. Sexual pride won't let you believe me. In such a case the man must necessarily be the villain. What do you mean by saying you only behave foolishly I can't understand? Perhaps not, and I can't explain as I once did in telling the story to a man, a friend of mine.

Starting point is 11:34:06 But however strict or moral ideas, you will admit that a girl of thoroughly bad character isn't a subject for the outcry that was raised about Miss Amy Drake. By taking a little trouble I could have brought things to light, which would have given worthy Mrs. Goodall and cousin Mary a great shock. Well, that's enough. I have never pretended to sanctity, but on the other hand I have never behaved like a scoundrel. You charge me deliberately with being a scoundrel, and I defend myself as best as I can. You argue that the man who would mislead an innocent girl and then cast her off as more likely than not to be guilty in a case like this of Mrs. Whittison, when appearances are decidedly against him.

Starting point is 11:34:42 There is only my word in each instance. The question is, will you accept my word? For a wonder, their privacy was threatened by the approach of two. men who were walking this way from sea-scale. Voices in conversation caused Rhoda to look round. Barfoot had already observed the strangers. "'Let us go up onto the highest sand,' he said. Without reply, Rhoda accompanied him, and for several minutes they exchanged no word. The men, talking and laughing loudly went by. They seemed to be tourists of a kind that do not

Starting point is 11:35:15 often trouble this quiet spot on the coast. Their cigars glowed in the dusk. after all this what have you to say to me rhoda will you please to give me your cousin's letter she said coldly here it is now you'll go back to your lodgings and sit with that letter open before you half through the night you will make yourself unutterably wretched and all for what he felt himself once more in danger of weakness rhoda in her hearty resentful mood was very attractive to him he was tempted to take her in his arms and kiss her her until she softened, pleaded with him. He wished to see her shed tears. But the voice in which she now spoke to him was far enough from tearfulness. "'You must prove to me that you have been wrongly suspected.' "'Ah, that was to be her line of conduct. She believed her power over him was absolute. She stood on her dignity, would bring him to supplication, would give him all the trouble she could before she professed herself satisfied. "'How am I to prove it?' he asked bluntly.

Starting point is 11:36:20 If there was nothing wrong between you and Mrs. Whittison, there must be some very simple explanation of her coming to your rooms, and being so anxious to see you. And is it my business to discover that explanation? Can it be mine? It must either be yours, Rhoda, or no one's. I shall take no single step in the matter. The battle was declared. Each stood at full height, pertinacious, resolved on victory. You are putting yourself wildly in the wrong. Everard continued. "'By refusing to take my word, you make it impossible for me to hope that we could live together

Starting point is 11:36:56 as we imagined.' The words fell upon her heart like a crushing weight. But she could not yield. Last night she had suffered in his opinion by urging what he thought a weak womanly scruple. She had condescended to plead tenderly with him, and had won her cause. Now she would prevail in another way. If he were telling the truth, he should acknowledge that natural suspicion made and incumbent upon him to clear so strange a case of its difficulties. If he were guilty of deception,

Starting point is 11:37:25 as she still believed, though willing to admit to herself that Monica might be most at fault, that there might have been no actual wrongdoing between them, he should confess with humblest penitence and beseech pardon. Impossible to take any other attitude. Impossible to marry him with this doubt in her mind, equally out of the question to seek Monica, and humiliate herself by making inquiries on such a subject. Guilty or not, Monica would regard her with secret disdain, with woman's malice. Were she able to believe him? That, indeed, would be grand consummation of their love, and ideal union of heart and soul.

Starting point is 11:38:00 Listening to him, she had tried to put faith in his indignant words. But it was useless. The incredulity she could not help must either part them forever, or be to her an occasion of new triumph. I don't refuse to take your word," she said with conscious quibbling. I only say that your name must be cleared from suspicion. Mr. Whittison is sure to tell his story to other people. Why has his wife left him?" I neither know nor care.

Starting point is 11:38:28 You must prove to me that you are not the cause of it. I shall not make the slightest effort to do so." Rhoda began to move away from him. As he kept silence she walked on in the sea-scale direction. He followed at a distance of a few yards, watching her movements. When they had gone so far that five minutes more must bring them within sight of the hotel, Everard spoke. Rhoda.

Starting point is 11:38:53 She paused and awaited him. You remember that I was going to London to-morrow? It seems that I had better go and not trouble to return. That is for you to decide. For you, rather. I have said all that I can say. And so have I. But surely you must be unconscious.

Starting point is 11:39:11 how grossly you are insulting me. I want only to understand what purpose Mrs. Whittison had and going to your rooms. Then why not ask her? You are friends. She would doubtless tell you the truth. If she comes to me voluntarily to make an explanation, I will hear it. But I shall not ask her. Your view of the fitness of things is that I should request her to wait upon you for that purpose. There are others who can act for you? Very well. Then we are at a deadlock. It seems to me that we had better shake hands like sensible people and say good-bye."

Starting point is 11:39:45 "'Much better, if it seems so to you.' The time for emotional help was passed. In very truth they had nothing more to say to each other, being now hardened in obstinacy. Each suffered from the other's coldness, each felt angry with the other's stubborn refusal to concede a point of dignity. Everard put out his hand. When you are ready to say that you have used me very ill, I shall remember only yesterday. Today.

Starting point is 11:40:12 Till then—good-bye, Rhoda." She made a show of taking his hand, but said nothing. And so they parted. At eight o'clock next morning, Barfoot was seated in the southward train. He rejoiced that his strength of will had thus far asserted itself. Of final farewell to Rhoda he had no thought whatever. Her curiosity would, of course, compel her to see Monica. One way or another she would learn that he was blameless.

Starting point is 11:40:40 This part was to keep aloof from her, and to wait for her inevitable submission. Violent rain was beating upon the carriage windows. It drove from the mountains, themselves invisible, though dense low clouds marked their position. Poor Rhoda! She would not have a very cheerful day at sea-scale. Perhaps she would follow him by a later train. Certain it was that she must be suffering intensely, and that certainly rejoiced him. The keener her suffering, the sooner her submission.

Starting point is 11:41:09 Oh, but the submission should be perfect. He had seen her in many moods, but not yet in the anguish of broken pride. She must shed tears before him, declare her spirit worn and subjugated by torment of jealousy and fear. Then he would raise her, and seat her in the place of honour, and fall down at her feet, and fill her soul with rapture. Many times between sea-scalant London he smiled in anticipation of that hour. Chapter 26

Starting point is 11:41:40 Chapter 27 of the Odd Women This Librevox recording is in the public domain, recording by Elizabeth Clette. The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 27 The re-escent Whilst the rain pelted, and it did so until afternoon, Rota sat in her little parlor, no wit less miserable than Barfoot imagined. She could not be sure whether Everard had gone to London,

Starting point is 11:42:12 At the last moment reflection or emotion might have detained him. Early in the morning she had sent to post a letter for Miss Barfoot, written last night, a letter which made no revelation of her feelings, but merely expressed a cold curiosity to hear anything that might become known as to the course of Mr. Whittison's domestic troubles. You may still write to this address. If I leave, letters shall be forwarded. When the sky cleared she went out. In the evening she again rambled about the shore.

Starting point is 11:42:42 Sure. Evidently Barfoot had gone. If still here, he would have watched and joined her. Her solitude now grew insufferable, yet she could not decide whither to betake herself. The temptation to return to London was very strong, but pride prevailed against it. Everard might perhaps go to see his cousin, and relate all that it happened at sea-scale, justifying himself as he had here done. Whether Miss Barfoot became aware of the story or not, Roda could not reconcile it with her self-respect to curtail the stipulated three weeks of holiday. Rather she would strain her nerves to the last point of endurance, and if she were not suffering, then never did woman suffer. Another cheerless day helped her to make up her mind. She

Starting point is 11:43:30 cared nothing now for lake and mountain. Human companionship was her supreme need. By the earliest train next day she started, not for London, but for her brother's home in Somerset. and there she remained until it was time to return to work. Miss Barfoot wrote twice in the interval, saying that she had heard nothing more of Monica. Of Everard she made no mention. Rhoda got back again to Chelsea on the appointed Saturday afternoon. Miss Barfoot knew when she would arrive, but was not at home to meet her, and did not return till a couple of hours had passed.

Starting point is 11:44:05 They met at length as if nothing remarkable had occurred during the three weeks. Mary, if she felt any solicitude, effectually concealed it. Rota talked as if very glad to be at home again, explaining her desertion of the lake country by the bad weather that prevailed there. It was not till after dinner that the inevitable subject came up between them. Have you seen Everard since you went away? Miss Barfoot began by asking. So he had not been here to tell his story and plead his cause, or it seemed not.

Starting point is 11:44:36 Yes, I saw him at sea-scale. Roda replied without sign of emotion. Before or after that news came. Both before and after, I showed him your letter, and all he had to say was that he knew nothing of the affair. That's all he has had to say to me. I haven't seen him. A letter I sent to his address was answered after a week, from a place I never heard of, Aramche in Normandy.

Starting point is 11:45:03 The shortest and rudest letter I've ever had from him. practically he told me to mind my own business, and there things stand." Rhoda smiled a little, conscious of the extreme curiosity her friend must be feeling, and determined not to gratify it. For by this time, though her sunken cheeks were hard to reconcile with the enjoyment of a summer holiday, she had matured a resolve to betray nothing of what she had gone through. Her state of mind resembled that of the ascetic, who has arrived at a morbid delight in self-torture. She regarded the world with an intense bitterness, and persuaded herself not only that the thought of Everard Barfoot was hateful to her soul, but that sexual love

Starting point is 11:45:45 had become, and would ever be, to her in impure idea, a vice of blood. "'I suppose,' she said carelessly, "'Mr. Whittison will try to divorce his wife.' "'I am in dread of that. But they have made it up. "'Of course you have no doubt of her guilt?' Mary tried to understand the hard, austere face with its touch of cynicism. Conjecture as to its meaning was not difficult, but in the utter absence of information, certainty there could be none. Under any circumstances it was to be expected that Rhoda would think and speak of Mrs. Whittison no less severely than of the errant Bella Royston.

Starting point is 11:46:26 I have some doubt, was Miss Barfoot's answer. But I should be glad of someone else's favorable opinion to help my charity. miss madden hasn't been here you see she certainly would have come if she had felt convinced that her sister was wronged unless a day or two saw the end of the trouble when naturally none of them would say any more about it This was the possibility which occupied Rhoda's reflections as long as she lay awake that night. Her feelings on entering the familiar bedroom were very strange. Even before starting for her holiday, she had bidden it good-bye, and at sea-scale, that night following upon the perfect day, she had thought of it as a part of her past life, the place abandoned forever, already infinitely remote.

Starting point is 11:47:11 Her first sensation when she looked upon the white bed was one of disgust. She thought it would be impossible to use this room henceforth, and that she must ask Miss Barfoot to let her change to another. Tonight she did not restore any of the ornaments which were lying packed up. The scent of the room revived so many hours of conflict, of hope, that it caused her a sick faintness. In a frenzy of detestation, she cursed the man who had so disturbed and sullied the swift, pure stream of her life. Aramange in Normandy On Sunday she sought the name on a map, but it was not marked, being doubtless too insignificant. Improbable that he had gone to such a place alone. He was enjoying himself with friends,

Starting point is 11:47:55 careless what became of her. Having allowed all this time to go by, he would never seek her again. He found that her will was the equal of his own, and as he could not rule her, she was numbered among the women who had afforded him interesting experiences, to be thought of seriously no more. During the next week she threw herself with energy upon her work, stifling the repugnance with which at first had affected her, and seeming at length to recover the old enthusiasm. This was the only way of salvation. Idleness and absence of purpose would soon degrade her in a sense she had never dreamt of. She made a plan of daily occupation, which by leaving not a vacant moment from early morning

Starting point is 11:48:36 to late at night, should give her the sleep of utter weariness. New studies were begun in the hour or two before breakfast. She even restricted her diet, and ate only just enough to support life, rejecting wine and everything that was most agreeable to her palate. She desired to speak privately with Mildred Vesper, and opportunity might have been made, but as part of her scheme of self-subdual, this conversation was postponed until the second week. It took place one evening when work was over. I've been wanting to ask you.

Starting point is 11:49:09 "'Roda began, whether you have any news of Mrs. Whitterson.' "'I wrote to her not long ago, and she answered from a new address. She said that she had left her husband, and would never go back to him.' Rhoda nodded gravely. "'Then what I had heard was true. You haven't seen her?' "'She asked me not to come. She is living with her sister.' "'Did she give you any reason for the separation from her husband?' "'None,' answered Mildred.

Starting point is 11:49:37 But she said it was no secret, that every one knew. That's why I haven't spoken to you about it, as I should have done otherwise after our last conversation." "'The fact is no secret,' said Rhoda coldly. "'But why will she offer no explanation?' Mildred shook her head, signifying inability to make any satisfactory reply, and there the dialogue ended, for Rhoda could not proceed in it without appearing to encourage scandal. The hope of eliciting some suggestive information had failed, but whether Mildred had really disclosed all she knew seemed doubtful.

Starting point is 11:50:14 At the end of the week Miss Barfoot left home for her own holiday. She was going to Scotland, and would be away for nearly the whole of September. At this time of year, the work in Great Portland Street was very light, not much employment offered for the typewriters, and the pupils numbered only about half a dozen. Nevertheless, it pleased Rhoda to have the establishment under her sole direction. She desired authority, and by magnifying the importance of that which now fell into her hands, she endeavored to sustain herself under the secret misery, which, for all her efforts, weighed no less upon her as time went on.

Starting point is 11:50:50 It was a dreary make-believe. On the first night of solitude at Chelsea she shed bitter tears, and not only wept, but agonized in mute frenzy, the passions of her flesh. torturing her until she thought of death as a refuge. Now she whispered the name of her lover with every word and phrase of endearment that her heart could suggest. The next moment she cursed him with the fury of deadliest hatred. In the half delirium of sleeplessness she revolved wild, impossible schemes for revenging herself. Or, as the mood changed, all but resolved to sacrifice everything to her love, to accuse herself of ignoble jealousy and entreat forgiveness. Of many

Starting point is 11:51:30 woeful nights this was the worst she had yet suffered. It recalled to her with much vividness a memory of girlhood, or indeed of childhood. She thought of that figure in the dim past, that rugged, harsh-featured man, who had given her the first suggestion of independence—thrice her own age, yet the inspirer of such tumultuous emotion in her ignorant heart—her friend at Clevedon—Mr. Smithson—a question from Mary Barfoot had caused her to glance back at him through the years, but only for an instant, and with self-mockery. What she now endured was the ripe intensity of a woe that fell upon her, at fifteen, when Mr. Smithson passed from her sight and away forever.

Starting point is 11:52:11 Childish folly! But the misery of it, the tossing at night, the blank outlook! How contemptible to revive such sensations with mature intellect, after so long and stern a discipline! Dreading the Sunday! So terrible in its depressing effect! upon the lonely and unhappy. She breakfasted as soon as possible and left home, simply to walk, to exert herself physically, that fatigue and sleep might follow. There was a dull sky, but no immediate fear of rain. The weather brightened a little towards noon. Careless of the direction,

Starting point is 11:52:46 she walked on and on until the last maddening church-bell had ceased its clangor. She was far out in the western suburbs, and weariness began to check her quick pace. Then she turned back. Without intending it, she passed by Mrs. Cosgrove's house—or rather would have passed, when she saw Mrs. Cosgrove at the dining-room window making signs to her. In a moment the door opened and she went in. She was glad of this accident, for the social lady might have something to tell about Mrs. Whittison, who often visited her. "'In mercy! Come and talk to me!' exclaimed Mrs. Cosgrove. "'I am quite alone, and feel as if I could hang myself. Are you obliged to go anywhere?'

Starting point is 11:53:28 No, I was having a walk. A walk! What astonishing energy! It never occurs to me to take a walk in London! I came from the country last night, and expected to find my sister here, but she won't arrive till Tuesday. I have been standing at the window for an hour, getting crazy with on-wee." They went to the drawing-room. It was not long before Mrs. Cosgrove made an illusion which enabled Rhoda to speak of Mrs. Whittison.

Starting point is 11:53:55 For a month or more Mrs. Cosgrove had seen an heard nothing of her. She had been out of town all the time. Roda hesitated, but could not keep silence on the subject that had become a morbid preoccupation of her mind. She told as much as she knew, accepting the suspicion against Everard Barfoot. "'It doesn't in the least surprise me,' said the listener with interest. "'I saw they wouldn't be able to live together very well. Without children the thing was impossible. Of course she has told you all about it.' I haven't seen her since it happened."

Starting point is 11:54:28 Do you know, I always have a distinct feeling of pleasure when I hear of married people parting? How horrible that would seem to some of our good friends! But it isn't a malicious pleasure! There's nothing personal in it! As I have told you before, I think I led a very contented life with my husband. But marriage in general is such a humbug. You forgive the word. Of course it is, assented Rhoda, laughing with forced gaiety. I am glad of anything that seems to threaten it as an institution. in its present form.

Starting point is 11:55:00 A scandalous divorce case is a delight to me. Anything that makes it evident how much misery would be spared if we could civilise ourselves in this respect. There are women whose conduct, I think, personally detestable, and whom, yet, I can't help thanking for their assault upon social laws. We shall have to go through a stage of anarchy, you know, before reconstruction begins. Yes, in that sense I am an anarchist. Seriously, I believe if few men and women in prominent position would contract marriage

Starting point is 11:55:27 of the free kind, without priest or lawyer, openly and defiantly, they would do more benefit to their kind than in any other possible way. I don't declare this opinion to everyone, but only because I am a coward. Whatever one believes with heart and soul, one ought to make known." Rhoda wore a look of anxious reflection. "'It needs a great deal of courage,' she said. To take that step, I mean. Of course.

Starting point is 11:55:53 We need martyrs. And yet I doubt whether the martyrdom would be very long or very trying to intellectual people. A woman of brains, who boldly acted upon her conviction, would have no lack of congenial society. The best people are getting more liberal than they care to convest to each other. Wait until someone puts the matter to the test, and you will see. Roda became so busy with her tumultuous thoughts, that she spoke only a word now and then, allowing Mrs. Cosgrove to talk at large on this engrossing theme. Where is Mrs. Whittison living?' the revolutionist at length inquired.

Starting point is 11:56:29 "'I don't know, but I can get you her address. Pray do, I shall go and see her. We are quite friendly enough for me to do so without impertinence.' Having lunched with her acquaintance, Rhoda went in the afternoon to Mildred Vespers' lodgings. Miss Vesper was at home, reading in her usual placid mood. She gave Rhoda the address that was on Mrs. Whittison's last brief note, and that evening Rhoda sent it to Mrs. In two days she received a reply. Mrs. Carsgrove had called upon Mrs. Whittison at her lodgings at Clapham. She is ill, wretched, and unwilling to talk.

Starting point is 11:57:07 I could only stay about a quarter of an hour, and to ask questions was impossible. She mentioned your name, and appeared very anxious to hear about you. But when I asked whether she would like you to call she grew timid all at once, and said she hoped you wouldn't unless you really desired to see her. Poor thing! Of course I don't know what it all means. I came away with maledictions and marriage in my heart. One is always safe in indulging that feeling."

Starting point is 11:57:31 A week or so after this there arrived for Miss Barfoot a letter from Everard. The postmark was Ostend. Never before had Rhoda be tempted to commit a break of confidence, such as in any one else she would have scorned beyond measure. She had heard, of course, of people secretly opening letters with the help of steam. Whether it could be done with absolute security from detection she did not feel sure. But her thoughts dwelt on the subject for several hours. It was terrible to hold this letter of Everard's writing, and yet be obliged to send it away

Starting point is 11:58:03 without knowledge of the contents, which perhaps gravely concerned her. She could not ask Miss Barfoot to let her know what Everard had written. The information might perhaps be voluntarily granted, but perhaps not. To steam the back of the envelope, would it not leave marks, a rumpling or discoloration? Even to be suspected of such dishonour would be more bitterly. to her than death. Could she even think of it? How she was degraded by this hateful passion, which wrought in her like a disease. With two others which that day had arrived she put the letter into a large envelope, and so dispatched it. But no satisfaction rewarded her. Her

Starting point is 11:58:43 heart raged against the world, against every law of life. When in a few days a letter came to her from Miss Barfoot, she tore it open, and there—yes there was ever on. handwriting. Mary had sent the communication for her to read. "'Dear cousin Mary, after all I was rather too grumpy in my last note to you. But my patience had been desperately tried. I have gone through a good deal. Now at last I am recovering sanity, and can admit that you had no choice but to ask those questions. I know and can nothing about Mrs. Whitterson. By her eccentric behaviour she either did me a great injury or a great service. I am I'm not quite sure which, but I inclined to the latter view.

Starting point is 11:59:27 Here is a conundrum, not very difficult to solve, I dare say. Do you know anything about Aramage? A very quiet little spot on the Normandy coast. You get to it by an hour's coach from Bayou, not invested by English. I went there on an invitation from the Brissendons, who discovered the place last year. Excellent people these. I like them better the more I know of them. A great deal of quiet liberality, even extreme liberality in the

Starting point is 11:59:53 two girls. They would suit you, I am sure." Well instructed, Agnes the younger, reads half a dozen languages, and shames me by her knowledge of all sorts of things, and yet delightfully feminine. As they were going to ostend, I thought I might as well follow them, and we continued to see each other pretty frequently. By the way, I shall have to find new quarters if I come back to London. The engineer, back from Italy, after a longer absence than he had anticipated, wants his flat, and, of course must have it.

Starting point is 12:00:23 But then I may not come back at all, except to gather my traps. I shall not call on you, unless I have heard that you don't doubt the assurance I have now twice given. Your profligate relative, E. B. I think, wrote Mary, that we may safely believe him. Such a lie would be too bad. He is incapable of it. Remember I have never charged him with falsehood.

Starting point is 12:00:47 I shall write and tell him that I accept his word. Has it or has it not occurred to you to see Mrs. Whittison yourself? Or, if there are insuperable objections, why not see Miss Madden? We talk to each other in a sort of cipher, dear Rhoda. Well, I desire nothing but your good, as I think you know, and you must decide for yourself where that good lies." Everard's letter put Rhoda beside herself with wrath. In writing it he knew it would come into her hands.

Starting point is 12:01:15 He hoped to sting her with jealousy. So Mrs. Whittison had done him a service. He was free to devote himself to Agnes Brissenden, with her six languages, her extreme liberality, her feminine charm. If she could not crush out her love for this man she would poison herself, as she had so often decided she would do, if ever some hopeless malady, such as cancer, took hold upon her. And be content to feed his vanity, to give him the lifelong reflection that, for love of him, a woman excelled by few in qualities of brain and heart, had died like a rat. She walked about the rooms here and there, upstairs

Starting point is 12:01:53 and downstairs in a fever of unrest. After all, was he not behaving in the very way she ought to desire? Was he not helping her to hate him? He struck at her with unmanly blows, thinking, no doubt, to quell her pride, and bring her to him in prostrate humility. Never. Even if it were proved in the clearest way that she ought to have believed him, she would make no submission. If he loved her, he must woo once more. But the suggestion in Mary's letter was not fruitless. When she had thought over it for a day or two, she wrote to Virginia Madden, asking her as a favor to come to Queen's Road on Saturday afternoon. Virginia quickly replied with a promise to call, and punctually kept the engagement.

Starting point is 12:02:37 Though she was much better dressed than in the days previous to Monica's marriage, she had lost something for which costume could not compensate. Her face had no longer that unmistakable refinement which had been wont to make her attire a secondary consideration. A disagreeable redness tinged her eyelids, and the lower part of her nose. Her mouth was growing coarse and lax, the underlip hanging a little. She smiled with a shrinking, apologetic shyness, only seen in people who have done something to be ashamed of, smiled even when she was endeavouring to look sorrowful, and her glance

Starting point is 12:03:11 was furtive. She sat down on the edge of a chair, like an anxious applicant for work or charity, and a moistness of the eyes, which obliged her to use her handkerchief frequently, strengthened this resemblance. Rhoda could not play at smooth phrases with this poor, dispirited woman, whose change during the last few years, and especially during the last twelve months, had often occupied her thoughts in a very unpleasant way. She came almost at once to the subject of their interview.

Starting point is 12:03:39 "'Why have you not been to see me before this?' "'I really couldn't. The circumstances—everything is so painful. You know—of course you know it has happened.' Of course I do." "'How?' asked Virginia timidly. "'Did the news, first of all, reach you?' "'Mr. Whittison came here and told Miss Barfoot everything.'

Starting point is 12:04:02 "'He came. We didn't know that. Then do you have heard the accusation he makes?' "'Everything.' "'It is quite unfounded, I do assure you. Monika is not guilty. The poor child has done nothing. It was an indiscretion, nothing more than indiscretion.' "'I am very anxious to believe it. Can you give me certainty? Can you explain Monica's behaviour? Not only on that one occasion, but the deceit she practised at other times. Her husband told Miss Barford that she had frequently told him on truths, such as saying that she called here when she certainly did not. I can't explain that, lamented Virginia. Monica won't tell me why she concealed her movements.

Starting point is 12:04:44 Then how can you ask me to believe your assurance that she isn't guilty? The sternness of this question caused Virginia to reddeny. and become utterly disconcerted. She dropped her handkerchief, fumbled for it, breathed hard. "'Oh, Miss Nunn! How can you think, Monica—' You know her better, I'm sure you do!' "'Any human being make emit a crime?' said the other impatiently, exasperated by what seemed to be merely new evidence against Barfoot. Who knows anyone well enough to say that a charge must be unfounded?' Miss Madden began to sob. "'I'm afraid that is true. My sister! my dear sister!'

Starting point is 12:05:24 I didn't want to distress you. Do command yourself, and let us talk about it calmly. Yes, I will. I shall be so glad to talk about it with you. Oh, if I get persuaded to return to her husband, he is willing to receive her! I meet him very often on Clapham Common, and— We are living at his expense! When Monica had been with me in my old lodgings for about a week, he took these new rooms for us,

Starting point is 12:05:50 and Monica consented to move. But she won't hear of going back to live with him. He is offered to let us have the house to ourselves, but it's of no use. He writes to her, but she won't reply. Do you know that he has taken a house at Clevedon? A beautiful house! They were to go to it in a week or two, and Alice and I would have gone to share it with them.

Starting point is 12:06:10 Then this dreadful thing happened. And Mr. Willison doesn't even insist on her telling him what she keeps secret He is willing to take her back under any circumstances, and she is so ill." Virginia broke off, as if there was something more that she did not venture to impart, her cheeks coloured, and she looked distressfully about the room. "'Seriously ill, do you mean?' inquired Rhoda, with difficulty softening her voice. "'She gets up each day, but I'm often afraid that—' She has had fainting fits.'

Starting point is 12:06:41 Rhoda gazed at the speaker with pitiless scrutiny. me." What can have caused this? Is this the result of her being falsely accused?" Partly that? But— Suddenly Virginia rose, stepped to Rhoda's side, and whispered a word or two. Rhoda turned pale, her eyes glared fiercely.

Starting point is 12:07:01 And still you believe her innocent? She has sworn to me that she is innocent. She says that she has a proof of it which I shall see some day, and her husband also. A presentiment has fixed itself in her mind that she can't. live, and before the end she will tell everything." The husband knows of this, of course, of what you have told me. No, she has forbidden me to say anything. And how could I, Miss Nunn?

Starting point is 12:07:26 She has made me promise solemnly that he shall not be told. I haven't even told Alice. But she will know very soon. At the end of September she leaves her place, and will come to London to be with us, for a time at all events. We do so hope that we shall succeed in persuading Monika to go to the house at Clevedon. Mr. Whittison is keeping it, and will move the furniture from Hun Hill at any moment. Couldn't you help us, dear Miss Nun?

Starting point is 12:07:51 Monica would listen to you. I am sure she would." "'I am afraid I can be of no use,' Roda answered coldly. "'She has been hoping to see you.' She has said so. Not in so many words, but I am sure she wishes to see you. She is asked about you several times, and when your note came she was very pleased. It would be a great kindness to us.

Starting point is 12:08:13 Does she declare that she will never return to her husband?" Yes, I am sorry to say she does. But the poor child believes that she is only a short time to live. Nothing will shake her presentiment. I shall die and give no more trouble. That's what she always says to me. And a conviction of that kind is so likely to fulfil itself. She never leaves the house, and of course that is very wrong, she ought to go out every day.

Starting point is 12:08:37 She won't see a medical man." Has Mr. Whitteson given her any cause for disliking him? Rola inquired. He was dreadfully violent when he discovered. I'm afraid it was natural. He thought the worst of her, and he has always been so devoted to Monica. She says he seemed on the point of killing her. He is a man of a very severe nature, I have always thought.

Starting point is 12:08:57 He never could bear that Monica should go anywhere alone. They were very, very unhappy, I'm afraid, so ill-matched in almost every respect. Still, under the circumstances, surely she ought to return to him. I can't say. I don't know." Rota's voice signified a conflict of feeling. Had she been disinterested, her opinion would not have wavered for a moment, she would have declared that the wife's inclination must be the only law in such a case.

Starting point is 12:09:25 As it was, she could only regard Monica with profound mistrust and repugnance. The story of decisive evidence kept back seemed to her only a weak woman's falsehood, a fiction due to shame and despair. Undoubtedly it would give some vague relief to her mind if Monica were persuading to go to Clevedon, but she could not bring herself to think of visiting the suffering-woman. Whatever the end might be, she would not have any part in bringing it about. Her dignity, her pride should remain unsullied by such hateful contact. "'I mustn't stay any longer,' said Virginia, rising after a painful silence.

Starting point is 12:10:01 I am always afraid to be away from her even for an hour. The fear of dreadful things that might happen haunt me day and night. How glad I shall be when Alice comes!' Roda had no words of sympathy. Her commiseration for Virginia was only such as she might have felt for any stranger involved in sordid troubles. All the old friendliness had vanished. Nor would she have been greatly shocked or astonished had she followed Miss Madden on the way to the railway station, and seen her, after a glance up and down the street, turned quickly into a public house, and come forth again, holding her handkerchief to her lips. A feeble, purposeless, hopeless woman, type of a whole class, living only to deteriorate.

Starting point is 12:10:42 Will. Purpose. Was she not in danger of forgetting these watchwords, which had guided her life out of youth into maturity? That poor creature's unhappiness was doubtless in great measure due to the conviction that in missing love and marriage she had missed everything. So thought the average woman, and in her darkest hour she too had fallen among those poor of spirit, the flesh prevailing. But the soul in her had not finally succumbed. Passion had a new significance. Her conception of life. was larger, more liberal. She made no vows to crush the natural instincts. But her conscience, her sincerity, should not suffer. Whatever destiny might lead, she would still be the same

Starting point is 12:11:24 proud and independent woman, responsible only to herself, fulfilling the nobler laws of her existence. A day or two after this she had guests to dine with her, Mildred Vesper and Winifred Haven. Among the girls whom she had helped to educate, these two seemed by far the most self-reliant, the most courageous and hopeful. In minor details of character they differed widely, and intellectually Miss Haven was far in advance. Rhoda had a strong desire to observe them as they talked about the most various subjects. She knew them well, but hoped to find in them some new suggestion of womanly force, which would be of help in her own struggle for redemption. It was seldom

Starting point is 12:12:04 that either of them ailed anything. Mildredge still showed traces of her country breeding. She was the more robust, walked with a heavier step. had less polish of manner. Under strain of any kind, Winfrey's health would soon give way, but her natural vivacity promised longer resistance to oppressing influences. Mildred had worked harder, and amid privations of which the other girl knew nothing. She would never distinguish herself, but it was difficult indeed to imagine her repining so long as she had her strength in her congenial friends. Twenty years hence in all probability, she would keep the stame, clear, steady eye, the same honest smile, and the same dry humor in her talk.

Starting point is 12:12:45 Winifred was more likely to traverse a latitude of storm. For one thing, her social position brought her in the way of men who might fall in love with her, whereas Mildred lived absolutely apart from the male world. Doubtless, too, her passions were stronger. She loved literature, spent as much time as possible in study, and had set her mind upon helping to establish that ideal woman's paper of which there was often talk at Miss Barfoot. In this company, Rhoda felt her old ambitions regaining their power over her. To these girls she was an exemplar.

Starting point is 12:13:17 It made her smile to think how little they could dream of what she had experienced during the last few weeks. If ever a moment of discontent assailed them, they must naturally think of her, of the brave, encouraging word she had so often spoken. For a moment she had deserted them, abandoning a course which her reason steadily approved, for one that was beset with perils of indignity. would shame her if they knew the whole truth, and yet she wished it were possible for them to learn that she had been passionately wooed—a contemptible impulse of vanity—away with it!

Starting point is 12:13:49 There was a chance, it seemed to her, that during Miss Barfwood's absence, Everard might come to the house. Mary had written to him he would know that she was away. What better opportunity, if he had not dismissed her memory from his thoughts. Every evening she made herself ready to receive a possible visitor. She took thought from her. her appearance. But the weeks passed by, Miss Barfoot returned, and Everard had given no sign. She would set a date—a limit. If before Christmas he neither came nor wrote, all was at an end. After that she would not see him whatever his plea. And having persuaded herself that this decision was irrevocable, she thought it as well to gratify Miss Barfoot's curiosity, for by now she felt

Starting point is 12:14:33 able to relate what had happened in Cumberland with a certain satisfaction. The feeling she had foreseen when, in the beginning of her acquaintance with Everard, it flattered her to observe his growing interest. Her narrative, to which Mary listened with downcast eyes, presented the outlines of the story voraciously. She told of Everard's wish to dispense with the legal bond, of her own indecision, and of the issue. When your letter came, could I very well have acted otherwise than I did. It was not a flat refusal to believe him. All I asked was that things should be cleared up before our marriage. For his own sake he ought to have willingly agreed to that. He preferred to take my request as an insult. His unreasonable anger made me angry,

Starting point is 12:15:13 too. And now I don't think we shall ever meet again, unless his mere acquaintances." "'I think,' commented the listener, "'that he behaved with extraordinary impudence. "'In the first proposal, but I myself attached no importance to the marriage ceremony?' "'Then why did you insist upon it?' asked Mary, with a smile that might have become sarcastic, but that her eye met Rhoda's. Would you have received us? In the one case as readily as in the other. Rhoda was silent and darkly thoughtful.

Starting point is 12:15:48 Perhaps I never felt entire confidence in him. Mary smiled and sighed. End of Chapter 27. Chapter 28 of the odd women. This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Elizabeth Clett. The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 28 The Burden of Futile Souls My own dearest love, if I could but describe to you all I have suffered before sitting down to write this letter. Since our last meeting I have not known one hour of quietness, to think that I have missed you when you called and left that note, for it was you yourself, was it not? The judge. journey was horrible, and the week that I have spent here, I assure you I have not slept for more

Starting point is 12:16:42 than a few minutes at a time, and I am utterly broken down by misery. My darling, etc., I regard myself as a criminal. If you have suffered a thousandth part of what I have, I deserve any punishment that could be devised. For it has all been my fault. Knowing as I did that our love could never end in happiness. It was my duty to hide what I felt. I ought never to have contrived that first meeting alone, for it was contrived. I sent my sisters away on purpose. I ought never, etc. The only reflection that can ever bring me comfort is that our love has been pure. We can always think of each other without shame. And why should this love ever have an end? We are separated, and perhaps shall never see each other again, but may not our hearts remain forever true?

Starting point is 12:17:33 "'May we not think?' "'If I were to bid you leave your home and come to me, "'I should be once more acting with base selfishness. "'I should ruin your life and load my own with endless self-approach. "'I find that even mere outward circumstances "'would not allow of what for a moment we dreamt might be possible, "'and of that I am glad, since it helps me to overcome the terrible temptation. "'Oh, if you only knew how that temptation—'

Starting point is 12:18:00 "'et cetera. Time will be a friend to both of us, dearest Monica. Forget each other. We never can. We never will. But our unsullied love. Etc. Monica read it through again, the long, rigmarole.

Starting point is 12:18:18 Since the day that she received it, addressed to Mrs. Williamson at the little stationers by Lavender Hill, the day before she consented to accompany her sister into new lodgings, the letter had lain in its high. hiding-place. Alone this afternoon, before Virginia was gone to call on Miss Nunn, alone and miserable, every printed page a weariness to her sight, she took out the French-stamped envelope and tried to think that its contents interested her. But not a word had power of attraction or of repulsion. The tender phrases affected her no more than if they had been addressed to a stranger. Love was become a meaningless word. She could not understand how

Starting point is 12:19:01 how she had ever drifted into such relations with the writer. Fear and anger with the sole passion surviving in her memory from those days which had violently transformed her life, and it was not with Bevis, but her husband that these emotions were connected. Bevis's image stood in that already distant past, like a lay figure, the mere semblance of a man. And with such conception of him his letter corresponded, it was artificial, lifeless, as if extracted it from some vapid novel. But she must not destroy it. Its use was still to come. Letter and envelope must go back again into hiding, and await the day which would give them power over human lives. Suffering as always from headache and lassitude, she sat by the window and watched the people

Starting point is 12:19:51 who passed along, her daily occupation. This sitting-room was on the ground floor. In a room above someone was receiving a music lesson, every now and then the teacher's voice became audible, raised in sharp impatience, and generally accompanied by a clash upon the keys of the piano. At the area gate of the house opposite a servant was talking angrily with a tradesman's errand-boy, who at length put his thumb to his nose with insulting significance and scampered off. Then at the house next to that one there stopped a cab, from which three busy-looking men alighted. cabs full of people were always stopping at that door monica wondered what it meant who might live there she thought of asking the landlady virginia's return aroused her she went upstairs with her sister into the double-bedded room which they occupied what have you heard he went there he told them everything how did miss nun look how did she speak oh she was very very distant lamented

Starting point is 12:20:56 I don't quite know why she sent for me. She said there would be no use in her coming to see you, and I don't think she ever will. I told her that there was no truth in—but how did she look?" asked Monica impatiently. "'Not at all well, I thought. She had been away for her holiday, but it doesn't seem to have done her much good.' He went there, and told them everything. "'Yes, just after it happened, but he hasn't seen her. them since that. I could see they believed him. It was no use all that I said. She looked so

Starting point is 12:21:32 stern, and— Did you ask anything about Mr. Barfoot?" "'My dear, I didn't venture to. It was impossible. But I feel quite sure that they must have broken off all intercourse with him. Whatever he may have said, they evidently didn't believe it. Miss Barfoot is away now.' "'And what did you tell her about me?' "'Everything that you said I might, dear.' Nothing else? You were sure? Virginia colored, but made a severation that nothing else had

Starting point is 12:22:03 passed her lips. "'It wouldn't have mattered if you had,' said Monica indifferently. "'I don't care.' The sister, struggling with shame, was irritated by the needlessness of her falsehood. "'Then why were you so particular to forbid me, Monica?' "'It was better. But I don't care. I don't care for anything. Let them believe and say what they like.' Like, Monica, if I find out at last that you have deceived me— Oh, do—do be quiet—cried the other wretchedly.

Starting point is 12:22:37 I shall go somewhere and live alone, or die alone. You worry me. I'm tired of it. You are not very grateful, Monica. I can't be grateful. You must expect nothing from me. If you keep talking and questioning I shall go away. I don't care what becomes of me.

Starting point is 12:22:54 The sooner I die the better. Scenes such as this had been frequent lately. The sisters were a great trial to each other's nerves. Teadium and pain drove Monica to the relief of altercation, and Virginia, through her secret vice, was losing all self-control. They wrangled, wailed, talked of parting, and only became quiet when their emotions had exhausted them. Yet no ill-feeling resulted from these disputes. Virginia had a rooted faith in her sister's innocence, when angry she she only tried to provoke Monica into a full explanation of the mystery, so insoluble by unaided conjecture. And Monica, say what she might, repaid this confidence with profound gratitude.

Starting point is 12:23:39 Strangely, she had come to view herself as not only innocent of the specific charge brought against her, but as a woman in every sense maligned. So utterly void of significance, from her present point of view, was all that had passed between her and Bevis. One reason for this lay in the circumstance that, when exchanging declarations with her lover, she was ignorant of a fact which, had she known it, would have made their meetings impossible. Her husband she could never regard but as a cruel enemy. Nonetheless, nature had set a seal upon their marriage against which the revolt of her heart was powerless. If she lived to bear a child, that child would be his. Whittison, when he heard of her condition, would declare

Starting point is 12:24:21 it the final proof of infidelity. And this injustice— it was that exclusively occupied her mind. On this account she could think only of the accusation which connected her name with Barfoot's. All else was triviality. Had there been no slightest ground for imputation upon her conduct, she could not have resented more vigorously her husband's refusal to acquit her of dishonour. On the following day, after their early dinner, Monica unexpectedly declared that she must go out. "'Come with me. We'll go into the town.' But you refused to go out this morning when it was fine, complained Virginia, and now you can see it will rain.

Starting point is 12:25:01 Then I shall go alone. The sister at once started up. No, no, I'm quite ready. Where do you wish—anywhere out of this dead place? We'll go by train and walk from Victoria, anywhere, to the abbey if you like. You must be very careful not to catch cold, after all this time that you haven't left the house. Monica cut short the admonition and dressed herself with feverish impatience. As they set forth, drops of rain had begun to fall, but Monica would not hear of waiting. The journey by train

Starting point is 12:25:36 made her nervous, but affected her spirits favourably. At Victoria it rained so heavily that they could not go out into the street. "'It doesn't matter. There's plenty to see here. Let us walk about and look at things. We'll buy something at the bookstore to take back.' again towards the platform, Monica was confronted by a face which she at once recognized, though it had changed noticeably in the eighteen months since she last saw it. The person was Miss Ede, her old acquaintance at the shop. But the girl no longer dressed as in those days, cheap finery of the loudest description arrayed her form, and it needed little scrutiny to perceive that her thin cheeks were artificially reddened. The surprise of the meeting was

Starting point is 12:26:21 not Monica's only reason for evincing embarrassment. Seeing that Miss Ede was uncertain whether to make a sign of acquaintance, she felt it would be wiser to go by. But this was not permitted. As they were passing each other, the girl bent her head and whispered, "'I want to speak to you. Just a minute.' Virginia perceived the communication, and looked in surprise at her sister. "'It's one of the girls from Woolworth Road,' said Monica. "'Just walk on. I'm I'll meet you at the bookstore." "'But, my dear, she doesn't look respectable.' "'Go on.

Starting point is 12:26:58 I won't be a minute.' Monica motioned to Miss Ede, who followed her towards a more retired spot. "'You have left the shop?' "'Left as you think so. Nearly a year ago. I told you I shouldn't stand it much longer. Are you married?' "'Yes.'

Starting point is 12:27:17 Monica did not understand why the girl should eye her so suspiciously. suspiciously. "'You are?' said Miss Ede. "'Nobody that I know, I suppose. Quite a stranger to you.' The other made an unpleasant click with her tongue, and looked vaguely about her. Then she remarked inconsequently that she was waiting the arrival of her brother by train. "'He's a traveller for a West End shop, makes five hundred a year. I keep house for him, because of course he's a widower.'

Starting point is 12:27:46 The—of course—puzzled Monica for a moment, but she remembered I remember that it was an unmeaning expletive much used by people of Miss Ede's education. However, the story did not win her credence. By this time her disagreeable surmises had too much support. Was there anything you wished particularly to speak about? You haven't seen nothing, Mr. Bullivant?" To what a remote period of her life this named seemed to recall Monica. She glanced quickly at the speaker, and again detected suspicion in her eyes.

Starting point is 12:28:18 I have neither seen nor heard of him since I left Walworth Road. Isn't he still there?" Not he. He went about the same time you did, and nobody knew where he hit himself." "'Hid? Why should he hide?' "'I only mean he got out of sight somewheres. I thought perhaps you might have come across him.'

Starting point is 12:28:37 "'No, I haven't. Now I must say good-bye. That lady is waiting for me.' Miss Ead nodded, but immediately altered her mind and checked Monica as she was turning away. You wouldn't mind telling me what your married name may be. That really doesn't concern you, Miss Ead, replied the others stiffly. I must go. If you don't tell me, I'll follow you till I find out and chance it.

Starting point is 12:29:03 The change from tolerable civility to coarse insolence was so sudden that Monica stood in astonishment. There was unconcealed malignity in the gaze fixed upon her. What do you mean? What interest have you in learning my name? The girl brought her face near, and snarled in the true voice of the pavement. "'Is it a name as you're ashamed to let out?' Monica walked away to the bookstall. When she had joined her sister, she became aware that Miss Ead was keeping her in sight.

Starting point is 12:29:34 "'Let us buy a book,' she said, and go home again. The rain won't stop.' They selected a cheap volume, and having their return tickets, moved towards the departure platform. Before she could reach the gates, Monica heard Miss Ede's voice just behind her. It had changed again, and the appealing note reminded her of many conversations in Walworth Road. "'Do tell me, I beg your pardon for being rude. Don't go without telling me!' The meaning of this opportunity had already flashed upon Monica, and now she felt a slight pity for the tawdry, abandoned creature, in whom there seemed to survive that hopeless passion of old days. "'My name,' she said abruptly,

Starting point is 12:30:18 "'is Mrs. Whitterson. "'Are you telling me the truth?' "'I have told you what you wish to know. "'I can't talk, and you don't really know nothing about him?' "'Nothing whatever.' Miss Ede moved sullenly away, not more than half convinced. Long after Monica's disappearance she strayed about the platform and the approaches to the station. Her brother was slow in arriving.

Starting point is 12:30:42 Once or twice she held casual colloquy with men who also stood waiting, perchance for their sisters, and ultimately one of these was kind enough to offer her refreshment, which she graciously accepted. Rhoda nun would have clasped her and mused about her, a not unimportant type of the odd woman. After this Monica frequently went out, always accompanied by her sister. It happened more than once that they saw Wittison, who walked past the house at the least every other day. He didn't approach them, and had he done so, Monica would have kept

Starting point is 12:31:17 an obstinate silence. For more than a fortnight he had not written to her. At length there came a letter, merely a repetition of his former appeals. "'I hear,' he wrote, "'that your elder sister is coming to London. Why should she live here in lodgings, when a comfortable house is at the disposal of you all? Let me entreat you again to go to Clevedon. The furniture shall be moved any moment you wish. I solemnly promise not to molest you in any way, not even by writing. It shall be understood that business makes it necessary for me to live in London. For your sister's sake, do accept this offer. If I could see you in private, I should be able to give you

Starting point is 12:31:58 a very good reason why your sister Virginia would benefit by the change. Perhaps you yourself know of it. Do answer me, Monica. Never again will I refer by word or look to what is past. I am anxious only to put an end to the wretched life that you are leading. Do go to the house at Clevedon, I implore you.' It was not the first time that he had hinted darkly at a benefit that might accrue to Virginia if she left London. Monica had no inkling of what he meant. She showed her sister this communication, and asked if she could understand the passage

Starting point is 12:32:33 which concerned her. "'I haven't the least idea,' Virginia replied, her hand trembling as she held the paper. I can only suppose that he thinks that I am not looking well!" The letter was burnt, as all the others had been, no answer vouchsafed. Virginia's mind seemed to waver with regard to the proposed settlement at Clevedon. Occasionally she had urged Monica, with extreme persistence, to accept what was offered. At other times, as now, for instance, she said nothing.

Starting point is 12:33:05 Yet Alice had written beseeching her to use all means for Monica. Monica's persuasion. Miss Madden infinitely preferred the thought of dwelling at Clevedon, however humble the circumstances had been, to that of coming back into London lodgings while she sought for a new engagement. The situation she was about to quit had proved more laborious than any in her experience. At first merely a governess, she had gradually become children's nurse as well, and for the past three months had been expected to add the tenants of a chronic invalid to her other duties. Not a day's holiday since she came. She was broken down and utterly woebegone. But Monica could not be moved. She refused to go again under her husband's

Starting point is 12:33:47 roof until he had stated that his charge against her was absolutely unfounded. This concession went beyond Wittison's power. He would forgive, but still declined to stultify himself by a statement that could have no meaning. To what extent his wife had deceived him might be uncertain, but the deception was approved fact. Of course it never occurred to him that Monica's demand had a significance which emphasized the name of Barfoot. Had he said, I'm convinced that your relations with Barfoot were innocent. He would have seemed to himself to be acquitting her of all criminality,

Starting point is 12:34:20 whereas Monica, from her point of view, illogically supposed that he might credit her on this one issue without overthrowing all the evidence that declared her untrustworthy. In short, she expected him to read a riddle, which there was scary, a possibility of his understanding. Alice was in correspondence with the gloomy husband. She had promised him to use every effort to gain Monica's confidence. Perhaps as the eldest sister she might succeed where Virginia had failed. Her faith in Monica's protestations had been much shaken by the item of intelligence which Virginia secretly communicated. She thought it too likely that her unhappy sister saw no refuge from disgrace but in stubborn denial of guilt.

Starting point is 12:35:02 and in the undertaking that was before her, she had no hope save through the influence of religion, with her a much stronger force than with either of the others. Her arrival was expected on the last day of September. The evening before, Monica went to bed soon after eight o'clock. For a day or two she had suffered greatly, and at length had allowed a doctor to be called. Whenever her sister retired very early, Virginia also went to her own bedroom, saying that she preferred to sit there. The room much surpassed in comfort that which she had occupied at Mrs. Coinsby's.

Starting point is 12:35:35 It was spacious and provided with a couple of very soft armchairs. Having locked her door, Virginia made certain preparations which had nothing to do with natural repose. From the cupboard she brought out a little spirit kettle and put water to boil. Then from a more private repository were produced a bottle of gin and a sugar-basin, which, together with a tumbler and spoon, found a place on a little table drawn up within in reach of the chair where she was going to sit. On the same table lay a novel procured this afternoon from the library.

Starting point is 12:36:07 Whilst the water was boiling, Virginia made a slight change of dress, conducive to bodily ease. Finally, having mixed a glass of gin and water, one-third only of the dilutant, she sat down with one of her frequent sighs and began to enjoy the evening. The last, the very last, of such enjoyment, so she assured herself, Alice's presence in the house would render impossible what she had hitherto succeeded in disguising from Monica. Her conscience welcomed the restraint, which was coming none too soon, for her will could no longer be depended upon. If she abstained from strong liquors from three or four days, it was now a great triumph, yet worthless, for even in abstaining she knew that the

Starting point is 12:36:51 hour of indulgence had only been postponed. A fit of unendurable depression soon drove her to the only resource which had immediate efficacy. The relief she knew was another downward step, but presently she would find courage to climb back again up to the shore ground. Save for her trouble on Monica's account the temptation would already have been conquered. And now Alice's arrival made courage a mere necessity. Her bottle was all but empty. She would finish it to-night, and in the morning, as her custom was, take it back to the grocer's in her little handbag. How convenient that this kind of thing could be purchased at the grocer's!

Starting point is 12:37:30 In the beginning she had chiefly made use of railway refreshment rooms. Only on rare occasions did she enter a public-house, and always with the bitterest sense of degradation. To sit comfortably at home, the bottle beside her and a novel on her lap was an avoidance of the worst shame attaching to this vice. She went to bed, and in the morning— Ah, the morning brought its punishment. but she incurred no risk of being detected.

Starting point is 12:37:58 Brandy had first of all been her drink, as is generally the case with women of the educated class. There are so many plausible excuses for taking a drop of brandy. But it cost too much. Whiskey she had tried and did not like. Finally she had recourse to gin, which was palatable and very cheap. The name, debased by such foul associations, still confused her when she uttered it.

Starting point is 12:38:24 As a rule, she wrote it down in a list of groceries which she handed over the counter. To-night she drank her first glass quickly. A consuming thirst was upon her. By half-past eight the second was gently steaming at her elbow. At nine she had mixed the third. It must last a long time, for the bottle was now empty. The novel entertained her, but she often let her thoughts stray from it. She reflected with exultation that to-night's indulgence was her very last, on the morrow she would be a new woman. Alice and she would devote themselves to their poor sister, and never rest till they had restored

Starting point is 12:39:01 her to a life of dignity. This was a worthy, a noble task. Success in it must need minister to her own peace. Before long they would all be living at Clevedon, a life of ideal contentment. It was no longer necessary to think of the school, but she would exert herself for the moral instruction of young women on the principles inculcated by Rhoda Nun. The page before her was no longer legible. The book dropped from her lap. Why this excited her laughter she could not understand, but she laughed for a long time,

Starting point is 12:39:33 until her eyes were dim with tears. It might be better to go to bed. What was the hour? She tried vainly to read her watch, and again laughed at such absurd incapacity. Then— Surely that was a knock at her door? Yes, it was repeated, with a distinct calling of her name. She endeavored to stand up. Miss Madden! It was the landlady's voice.

Starting point is 12:39:58 Miss Madden, are you in bed yet? Virginia succeeded in reaching the door. What is it? Another voice spoke. It is I, Virginia. I have come this evening instead of tomorrow. Please let me come in. Alice?

Starting point is 12:40:15 You can't. I'll come. Wait downstairs. She was still able to understand the situation. and able, she thought, to speak coherently, to disguise her condition. The things on the table must be put out of sight. In trying to do this she upset her glass and knocked the empty bottle onto the floor. But in a few minutes bottle, glass, and spirit kettle were hidden away. The sugar basin she lost sight of, it still remained in its former place. Then she opened

Starting point is 12:40:46 the door and with uncertain step went out into the passage. "'Alice?' she called aloud. At once both her sisters appeared, coming out of Monica's chamber. Monica had partly dressed herself. "'Why have you come to-night?' Virginia exclaimed, in a voice which seemed to her own ears perfectly natural. She tottered, and was obliged to support herself against the wall, the light from her room fell full upon her, and Alice, who had stepped forward to give her a kiss, not only saw, but

Starting point is 12:41:18 smelt that something very strange was the matter. the odour proceeding from the bedroom, and that of Virginia's breath, left small doubt as to the cause of delay in giving admittance. Whilst Alice stood bewildered, Monica received an illumination which instantly made clear to her many things in Virginia's daily life. At the same moment she understood those mysterious hints concerning her sister in Whittison's letters. "'Come into the room,' she said abruptly.

Starting point is 12:41:46 "'Come, Virgie.' "'I don't understand. is Alice come to-night? What's the time?" Monica took hold of the tottering woman's arm, and drew her out of the passage. The cold air had produced its natural effect upon Virginia, who now with difficulty supported herself. "'Oh, Virgie!' cried the eldest sister, when the door was closed. "'What is the matter? What does it mean?' Already she had been shedding tears at the meeting with Monica, and now distress overcame her. She

Starting point is 12:42:19 sobbed and lamented. "'What have you been doing, Vajie?' asked Monica with severity. "'Doing? I feel a little faint. Surprise! I didn't expect! Sit down at once! You are disgusting! Look, Alice!' she pointed to the sugar-basin on the table. Then after a rapid glance round the room she went to the cupboard and threw the door open. I thought so. Look, Alice! And to think I never suspected it. this. It has been going on a long time. Oh, a long time! She was doing it at Mrs. Coynespe's before

Starting point is 12:42:56 I was married. I remember smelling spirits." Virginia was making efforts to rise. "'What are you talking about?' she exclaimed in a thick voice, and with a countenance which was changing from dazed astonishment to anger. "'It's only when I feel faint. Do you suppose I drink? Where's Alice? Wasn't Alice here?' Oh, Virgie, what does it mean? How could you? Go to bed at once, Virginia, said Monica. We're ashamed of you. Go back into my room, Alice, and I'll get her to bed. Ultimately this was done. With no slight trouble Monica persuaded her sister to undress,

Starting point is 12:43:36 and got her into a recumbent position. Virginia all the time protesting that she had perfect command of her faculties, that she needed no help whatever, and was utterly at a loss to comprehend the insults directed against her. "'Lie still, and go to sleep,' was Monica's last word, uttered contemptuously. She extinguished the lamp and returned to her own room, where Alice was still weeping. The unexpected arrival had already been explained to Monica. Sudden necessity for housing a visitor had led to the proposition that Miss Madden, for her last night, should occupy a servant's bedroom.

Starting point is 12:44:12 Glad to get away, Alice chose the alternative of leaving the house at once. It had been arranged that she should share Virginia's room, but to-night this did not seem advisable. "'Tomorrow,' said Monica, "'we must talk to her very seriously. I believe she has been drinking like that night after night.' It explains the look she always has the first thing in the morning. Could you have imagined anything so disgraceful?' But Alice had softened towards the airing woman.

Starting point is 12:44:41 "'You must remember what a life has been, dear. I'm afraid loneliness is very often a cause.' "'She needn't have been lonely. She refused to come and live at Herne Hill, and now, of course, I understand why. Mrs. Coinsby must have known about it, and it was her duty to tell me. Mr. Whitterson had found out somehow I feel sure.' She explained the reason of this belief. "'You know what it all points to,' said Miss Madden, drying her sallow pimpled cheeks. "'You must do as your husband wishes, dearest. We must go to Clevedon. There the poor girl will be out of temptation.' "'You and Virgie may go.' "'You too, Monica. My dear sister, it is your duty.'

Starting point is 12:45:26 "'Don't use that word to me,' exclaimed the other angrily. "'It is not my duty. It can be no woman's duty to live with the man she hates, or even to make a pretense of living with him.' "'But, dearest!' "'You mustn't begin this to-rength. tonight, Alice. I have been ill all day, and now my head is aching terribly. Go downstairs and eat the supper they have laid for you." "'I couldn't touch a morsel,' sobbed Miss Madden.

Starting point is 12:45:53 "'Oh, everything is too dreadful! Life is too hard!' Monica had returned to bed, and lay there with her face half hidden against the pillow. "'If you don't want any supper,' she said in a moment, "'please go and tell them, so that they didn't sit up for you." Alice obeyed. When she came up again her sister was, or pretended to be, asleep. Even the noise made by bringing luggage into the room did not cause her to move. Having sat in despondency for a while, Miss Madden opened one of her boxes, and sought in it

Starting point is 12:46:28 for the Bible which it was her custom to make use of every night. She read in the book for about half an hour, then covered her face with her hands, and prayed silently. This was her refuge from the barrenness and bitterness of life. End of Chapter 28. Chapter 29 of the Odd Women. This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clette. The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 29. Confession and Counsel The Sisters did not exchange a word until morning, but Both of them lay long awake.

Starting point is 12:47:11 Monica was the first to lose consciousness. She slept for about an hour. Then the pains of a horrid dream disturbed her. And again she took up the burden of thought. Such waking after brief broken sleep, when mind and body are beset by weariness, yet cannot rest, when night with its awful hush and its mysterious movements

Starting point is 12:47:32 makes a strange, dread habitation for the spirit. Such waking is a grim trial of human fortitude. The blood flows sluggishly, yet subject to sudden tremors that chill the veins and for an instant choke the heart. Purpose is idle, the will impure. Over the past hangs a shadow of remorse, and life that must yet be lived shows lurid a steep pathway to the hopeless grave. Of this cup, Monica drank deeply. A fear of death compassed her about. after night it had thus haunted her. In the daytime she could think of death with resignation as a refuge from miseries of which she saw no other end. But this hour of silent darkness shook

Starting point is 12:48:21 her with terrors. Reason availed nothing, its exercise seemed criminal. The old faiths, never abandoned, though modified by the breath of intellectual freedom that had just touched her, reasserted all their power. She saw herself as a wicked woman, in the eye of truth not less wicked than her husband declared her, a sinner stubborn and impenitence, defending herself by a paltry ambiguity that had all the evil of a direct lie. Her soul trembled in its nakedness. What redemption could there be for her? What path of spiritual health was discoverable?

Starting point is 12:49:02 She could not command herself to love the father of her child. The repugnance with which she regarded him seemed to her. a sin against nature. Yet how was she responsible for it? Would it profit her to make confession and be humbled before him? The confession must some day be made, if only for her child's sake. But she foresaw in it no relief of mind. Of all human beings her husband was the one least fitted to console and strengthen her. She cared nothing for his pardon. From his love she shrank. But if there were someone to whom she could utter her thoughts with the certainty of being understood. Her sisters had not the sympathetic intelligence necessary for aiding her. Virginia was weaker than she herself,

Starting point is 12:49:48 and Alice dealt only in sorrowful commonplaces, profitable perhaps to her own heart, but powerless over the trouble of another's. Among the few people she had called her friends, there was one strong woman, strong of brain, and capable it might be, of speaking the words that go from soul to soul. This woman she had deeply offended, yet owing to mere mischance. Whether or no Rhoda Nun had lent ear to Barfoot's wooing, she must be gravely offended. She had given proof of it in the interview reported by Virginia. The scandal spread abroad by Whittison might even have been fatal to a happiness of which she had dreamt. To Rhoda Nunn some form of reparation was owing, and might not an avowal of the whole truth,

Starting point is 12:50:35 illicit from her counsel of gratitude, some solace, some guidance? Amid the tremors of night, Monica felt able to take this step, for the mere chance of comfort that it offered. But when day came the resolution had vanished. Shame and pride again compelled her to silence. And this morning she had new troubles to think about. Virginia was keeping her room, would admit no one, answered every whisper of appeal with brief, vague words that signified anything or nothing. The others breakfasted in gloom that

Starting point is 12:51:10 harmonized only too well with the heavy dripping sky visible from their windows. Only at midday did Alice succeed in obtaining speech with her remorseful sister. They were closeted together for more than an hour, and the elder woman came forth at last with red, tear-swollen eyes. "'We must leave her alone to-day,' she said to Monica. She won't take any means. Oh, the wretched state she is in! If only I could have known of this before! Has it been going on for very long?" It began soon after she went to live at Mrs. Coinsby's. She has told me all about it.

Starting point is 12:51:49 Poor girl! Poor thing! Whether she can ever break herself of it, who knows? She says that she will take the pledge of total abstinence, and I encouraged her to do so. It may be some use, don't you think? Perhaps, I don't know." But I have no faith in her reforming unless she goes away from London. She thinks herself that only a new life in a new place will give her the strength.

Starting point is 12:52:15 My dear at Mrs. Coinsby she starved herself to have money to buy spirits. She went about without any food but dry bread day after day. Of course that made it worse. She must have craved for support. Of course. And your husband knows about it. He came once when she was in that state, when you were away." Monica nodded sullenly, her eyes averted.

Starting point is 12:52:41 Her life has been so dreadfully unhealthy. She seems to have become weak-minded. All her old interests have gone. She reads nothing but novels day after day. I have noticed that. How can we help her, Monica? Won't she make a sacrifice for the poor girl's sake? Cannot I persuade you, dear?

Starting point is 12:53:05 Your position has a bad influence on her, I see it has. She worries so about you, and then tries to forget the trouble. You know how." Not that day nor the next could Monica listen to these entreaties, but her sister at length prevailed. It was late in the evening. Virginia had gone to bed, and the others sat silently without occupation. This Madden, after several vain efforts to speak, bent forward and said in a low, grave voice, "'Monika, you are deceiving us all. You are guilty.'

Starting point is 12:53:43 "'Why do you say that?' "'I know it. I have watched you. You betray yourself when you are thinking.' The other sat with brows knitted, with hard, defiant lips. "'All your natural affection is dead, and only guilt. could have caused that. You don't care what becomes of your sister. Only the fear or the evil pride that comes of guilt could make you refuse what we ask of you. You are afraid to let your husband know of your condition." Alice could not have spoken thus, had she not believed what she said. The conviction had become

Starting point is 12:54:21 irresistible to her mind. Her voice quivered with intensity of painful emotion. "'That last is true,' said her sister. when there had been silence for a minute. "'You confess it! Oh, Monica!' "'I don't confess what you think,' went on the younger, with more calmness than she had yet commanded in these discussions. "'Of that I am not guilty. I am afraid of his knowing because he will never believe me.

Starting point is 12:54:51 I have a proof which would convince anyone else, but even if I produced it it would be no use. I don't think it is possible to persuade him, when once he knows.' "'If you were innocent, you would disregard that.' "'Listen to me, Alice. "'If I were guilty I should not be living here at his expense. "'I only consented to do that when I knew what my condition was.

Starting point is 12:55:16 "'But for this thing I should have refused to accept another penny from him. "'I should have drawn upon my own money until I was able to earn my own living again. "'If you won't believe this it shows you know nothing of me. "'Your reading of my face is all foolishness.' "'I would, to God, I was sure of what you say,' moaned Miss Madden, with vehemence which seemed extraordinary in such a feeble, flabby person. "'You know that I told my husband lies,' exclaimed Monica. "'So you think that I am never to be trusted. I did tell him lies. I can't deny it, and I am ashamed of it. But I am not a deceitful woman. I can say that boldly. I love the truth better than falsehood.

Starting point is 12:56:01 If it weren't for that, I should never have left home. A deceitful woman, in my circumstances, you don't understand them, would have cheated her husband into forgiving her. Such a husband as mine. She would have calculated the most profitable course. I left my husband because it was hateful to me to be with a man for whom I had lost every trace of affection. In keeping away from him I am acting honestly. But I have told you that I am also afraid of his making a discovery. I want him to believe when the time comes."

Starting point is 12:56:33 She broke off. "'Then, Monica, you ought to make known to him what you have been concealing. If you are telling the truth, that confession can't be anything very dreadful.' Alice, I am willing to make an agreement. If my husband will promise never to come near Cleveland till I send for him, I will go and live there with you in Virgie." "'He has promised that, darling.' cried Miss Madden delightedly.

Starting point is 12:57:01 "'Not to me. He is only said that he will make his home in London for a time. That means he would come whenever he wished, if it were only to speak to you in Virgie. But he must undertake never to come near until I give him permission. If he will promise this and keep his word, I pledge myself to let him know the whole truth in less than a year. Whether I live or die, he shall be told the truth, in less than a year.' Before going to bed, Alice wrote and dispatched a few lines to Whittison, requesting an interview with him as soon as possible. She would come to his house at any hour he liked to appoint. The next afternoon brought a reply, and that same evening Miss Madden went to Hearn Hill.

Starting point is 12:57:44 As a result of what passed there, a day or two saw the beginning of the long-contemplated removal to Clevedon. Wittison found a lodging in the neighbourhood of his old home. He had engaged never to the bounds of Somerset until he received his wife's permission. As soon as this compact was established, Monica wrote to Miss Nunn—a short, submissive letter. "'I am about to leave London, and before I go I very much wish to see you. Will you allow me to call at some hour when I could speak to you in private? There is something I must make known to you, and I cannot write it.' After a day's interval came the reply, which was still briefer, Miss Nunn would be at home at

Starting point is 12:58:27 half-past eight this or the next evening. Monica's announcement that she must go out alone after nightfall alarmed her sisters. When told that her visit was to Rode a Nun, they were somewhat relieved, but Alice begged to be permitted to accompany her. "'It'll be lost trouble,' Monica declared. "'More likely than not there is a spy waiting to follow me wherever I go. Your for assurance that I really went to Miss Barfoot's won't be needed." When the others still opposed her purpose she passed from irony to anger. Have you undertaken to save him the expense of private detectives? Have you promised never to let me go out of your sight?"

Starting point is 12:59:07 "'Certainly I have not,' said Alice. "'Nor I, dear,' protested Virginia. He has never asked anything of the kind. Then you may be sure that the spies are still watching me. them have something to do, poor creatures. I shall go alone, so you needn't say any more." She took the train to York Road Station, and then, says the night was fine, walked to Chelsea. This semblance of freedom, together with the sense of having taken a courageous resolve, raised her spirits. She hoped that a detective might be tracking her. The futility of

Starting point is 12:59:44 such measures afforded her contemptuous satisfaction. Not to arrive before the appointed hour, She loitered on Chelsea Embankment, and it gave her pleasure to reflect that in doing this she was outraging the proprieties. Her mind was in a strange tumult of rebellious and distrustful thoughts. She had determined on making a confession to Rhoda. But would she benefit by it? Was Rhoda generous enough to appreciate her motives? It did not matter much. She would have discharged a duty at the expense of such shame, and this fact alone might strengthen her to face the miseries beyond. As she stood at Miss Barfoot's door her heart quailed. To the servant who opened she could only speak Miss Nun's name. Fortunately instructions had been given, and she was

Starting point is 13:00:32 straightway led to the library. Here she waited for nearly five minutes. Was Rhoda doing this on purpose? Her face, when at length she entered, made it seem probable. A cold dignity, only not offensive haughtiness appeared in her bearing. She did not offer to shake hands, and used no form of civility beyond requesting her visitor to be seated. "'I am going away,' Monica began, when silence compelled her to speak. "'Yes, so you told me. I can see that you can't understand why I've come.' Your note only said that you wished to see me. Their eyes met, and Monica knew in the moment that succeeded, that she was being examined from head to foot. It seemed to her that she had undertaken something beyond her strength. Her impulse was to invent a subject of brief

Starting point is 13:01:23 conversation and escape into the darkness. But Miss Nunn spoke again. "'Is it possible that I can be of any service to you?' "'Yes. You might be. But—I find it is very difficult to say, but I—' Roda waited, offering no help whatever, not even that of a look expressing interest. "'Will you tell me, Miss Nunn, why you behave so coldly to me?' "'Surely that doesn't need any explanation, Mrs. Whitterson?' "'You mean that you believe everything Mr. Whittison has said. Mr. Whitterson has said nothing to me, but I have seen your sister, and there seemed

Starting point is 13:02:05 no reason to doubt what she told me.' She couldn't tell you the truth, because she doesn't know it. I presume she at least told no untruth. What did Virginia say? I think I have a right to ask that." Roda appeared to doubt it. She turned her eyes to the nearest bookcase, and for a moment reflected. "'Your affairs don't really concern me, Mrs. Whitterson,' she said at length.

Starting point is 13:02:32 "'They have been forced upon my attention, and perhaps I regard them from a wrong point to view. Unless you have come to defend yourself against a false accusation, is there any profit in our talking of these things?" "'I have come for that.' Then I am not so unjust as to refuse to hear you. "'My name has been spoken of together with Mr. Barfoot's. This is wrong. It began from a mistake.' Monica could not shape her phrases.

Starting point is 13:03:02 Hastening to utter the statement that would relieve her from Miss Nun's personal displeasure, she used the first simple words that rose to her lips. When I went to Bayswater that day I had no thought of seeing Mr. Barfoot. I wished to see someone else. The listener manifested more attention. She could not mistake the signs of sincerity in Monica's look and speech. Someone, she asked coldly, who was living with Mr. Barfoot? No, someone in the same building, in another flat.

Starting point is 13:03:34 When I knocked at Mr. Barfoot's door, I knew, or I felt sure, no one would answer. I knew Mr. Barfoot was going away that day, going into Cumberland. Roda's look was fixed on the speaker's countenance. You knew he was going to Cumberland? She asked in a slow, careful voice. He told me so. I met him quite by chance the day before. Where did you meet him?

Starting point is 13:04:02 Near the flats. "'Monika answered, colouring. "'He had just come out. I saw him come out. "'I had an appointment there that afternoon, and I walked a short way with him, "'so that he shouldn't—' "'Her voice failed. "'She saw that Rhoda Nun had begun to mistrust her, to think that she was elaborating falsehoods. "'The burdensome silence was broken by Miss Nunn's saying repellently.

Starting point is 13:04:27 "'I haven't asked for your confidence, remember?' "'No. "'And if you try to imagine what it means—' means for me to be speaking like this. I am not shameless. I have suffered a great deal before I could bring myself to come here and tell you. If you were more human, if you tried to believe!" The agitation which found utterance in these words had its effect upon Rhoda. In spite of herself she was touched by the note of womanly distress. Why have you come? Why do you tell me this?

Starting point is 13:04:58 Because it isn't only that I have been falsely accused. I felt that I must tell you that Mr. Barfoot had never—that there was nothing between us. What has he said? How did he meet the charge Mr. Whittison made against him?" Simply by denying it. "'Hasn't he wished to appeal to me?' "'I don't know. I haven't heard of his expressing such a wish. I can't see that you were called upon to make any trouble about Mr. Barfurt. He ought to be able to protect his own reputation.'

Starting point is 13:05:28 "'Has he done so?' "'Marnica asked eagerly. "'Did you believe him when he denied?' But what does it matter whether I believed him or not? He would think it mattered a great deal. Mr. Barfoot would think so. Why? He told me how much he wished to have your good opinion. That is what we used to talk about.

Starting point is 13:05:48 I don't know why he took me into his confidence. It happened first of all when we were going by train, the same train by chance, after we had both been calling here. He asked me many questions about you, and at last said, that he loved you. or something that meant the same."

Starting point is 13:06:06 Roda's eyes had fallen. "'After that,' pursued Monica, "'we several times spoke of you. We did so, and we happened to meet near his rooms, as I have told you. He told me he was going to Cumberland with the hope of seeing you, and I understood him to mean he wished to ask you.' The sudden and great change in Miss Nunn's expression checked the speaker. Scornful austerity had given place to a smile,

Starting point is 13:06:30 stern indeed but exultant. There was warmth upon her face. Her lips moved and relaxed. She altered her position in the chair as if inclined for more intimate colloquy. "'There was never more than that between us,' pursued Monica with earnestness. "'My interest in Mr. Barfoot was only on your account. I hoped that he might be successful, and I've come to you because I feared you would believe my husband—as I see you have done.' Rhoda, though she thought it very unlikely that all this should be. be admirable acting, showed that the explanation had by no means fully satisfied her.

Starting point is 13:07:08 Unwilling to put the crucial question, she waited, with gravity which had none of the former harshness, for what else Mrs. Whittison might choose to say. A look of suffering appeal obliged her to break the silence. "'I am very sorry you have laid this task upon yourself.' Still Monica looked at her, and at length she murmured, "'If only I could know that I had done any good—' But," said Rhoda with a searching glance, "'You don't wish me to repeat what you have said.'

Starting point is 13:07:38 "'It was only for you. I thought—if you felt able to let Mr. Barfoot know that you no longer had any—' A flash of stern intelligence shot from the listener's eyes. "'You have seen him, then?' she asked with abrupt directness. "'Not since.' "'He has written to you?' Still in the same voice. "'Indeed, he has not. Mr. Barfoot never wrote to me. I know nothing whatever about him. No one asked me to come to you. Don't think that. No one knows of what I have been telling you.'

Starting point is 13:08:13 Again Rhoda was oppressed by the difficulty of determining how much credit was due to such assertions. Monica understood her look. "'As I have said so much, I must tell you all. It would be dreadful after this to go away uncertain whether you believed me or not.' not. Human feeling prompted the listener to declare that she had no doubts left, yet she could not give utterance to the words. She knew they would sound forced, insincere. Shame at inflicting shame caused her to bend her head. Already she had been silent too long. "'I will tell you everything,' Monica was saying in low, tremulous tones. "'If no one else believes me you at all event shall—I have not done what—'

Starting point is 13:08:59 "'No, I can't hear this,' Roda broke in, the speaker's voice affecting her too powerfully. "'I will believe you without this.' Monica broke into sobbing. The strain of this last effort had overtaxed her strength. "'We won't talk any more of it,' said Roda, with an endeavour to speak kindly. "'You have done all that could be asked of you. I am grateful to you for coming on my account.' The other controlled herself. "'Will you hear what I have to say, Mr. Nunn. Will you hear it as a friend? I wanted to put myself right in your thoughts. I have told

Starting point is 13:09:35 no one else. I shall be easier in mind if you will hear me. My husband will know everything before very long. But perhaps I shall not be alive." Something in Miss Nun's face suggested to Monica that her meaning was understood. Perhaps notwithstanding her denial, Virginia had told more when she was here than she had permission to make known. Why should you wish to tell me? asked Rhoda uneasily. Because you are so strong. You will say something that will help me.

Starting point is 13:10:08 I know you think that I have committed a sin which it is a shame to speak of. That isn't true. If it were true, I should never consent to go and live in my husband's house. You are returning to him. I forgot that I haven't told you." And Monica related the agreement that had been arrived at. When she spoke of the time that must elapse before she would make a confession to her husband, it again seemed to her that Miss Nunn understood.

Starting point is 13:10:35 "'There is a reason why I consent to be supported by him,' she continued. "'If it were true that I had sinned as he suspects, I would rather kill myself than pretend still to be his wife. The day before he had me watched I thought I had left him forever. I thought that if I went back to the house again, it would only be to get a few things that I needed. It was someone who lived in the same building as Mr. Barfoot. You have met him!' She raised her eyes for an instant, and they encountered the listeners. Rhoda was at no loss to supply the omitted name.

Starting point is 13:11:09 She saw at once how plain things were becoming. "'He has left England,' pursued Monica in a hurried but clear voice. "'I thought then that I should go away with him. But—it was impossible. I loved him. Or thought I loved him. But I was guiltless of anything more than consenting to leave my husband. Will you believe me?

Starting point is 13:11:31 Yes, Monica, I do believe you. If you have any doubt, I can show you a letter he wrote to me from abroad, which will prove. I believe you, absolutely. But let me tell you more. I must explain how the misunderstanding! Rapidly she recounted the incidents of that fatal Saturday afternoon. At the conclusion her self-command was again overcome.

Starting point is 13:11:54 She shed tears, and murmured broken entreaties for kindness. "'What shall I do, Miss Nunn? How can I live until—' I know it's only for a short time. My wretched life will soon be at an end.' Monica, there is one thing you must remember. The voice was so gentle, though firm, so unlike what she had expected to hear, that the sufferer looked up with grateful attention. "'Tell me, give me what help you can.' "'Life seems so bitter to you that you are in despair.

Starting point is 13:12:28 Yet isn't it your duty to live as though some hope were before you?' Marnica gazed in uncertainty. "'You mean?' she faltered. "'I think you'll understand. I am not speaking of your husband. Whether you have duties to him or not, I can't say. That is for your own mind and heart to determine. But isn't it true that your health has a graver importance than if you yourself only were concerned? understand.

Starting point is 13:12:55 Yes, you have understood me. Isn't it your duty to remember at every moment that your thoughts, your actions, may affect another life, that by heedlessness, by abandoning yourself to despair, you may be the cause of suffering it was in your power to avert?" Herself strongly moved, Roda had never spoken so impressively, had never given counsel of such earnest significance. She felt her power in quite a new way, without touch of vanity. without posing or any trivial self-consciousness. When she least expected it, an opportunity

Starting point is 13:13:30 had come for exerting the moral influence on which she prided herself, and which she hoped to make the ennobling element of her life. All the better that the case was one calling for courage, for contempt of vulgar reticences. The compative soul in her became stronger when faced by such conditions. Seeing that her words were not in vain, she came nearer to Monica, and spoke yet more kindly. Why do you encourage that fear of your life coming to an end? It's more of a hope than fear. At most times, I can see nothing before me. I don't wish to live. That's morbid. It isn't yourself that speaks but your trouble. You are young and strong, and in a year's time very much of this unhappiness will have passed.

Starting point is 13:14:17 I have felt it like a certainty, as if it had been foretold to me, ever since I knew." I think it very likely that young wives have often the same dread. It is physical, Monica, and in your case there is so little relief from dark brooding. But again you must think of your responsibility. You will live because the poor little life will need your care." Monica turned her head away and moaned. "'I shall not love my child.' Yes you will.

Starting point is 13:14:47 And that love, that duty, is the life to which you must look forward. You have suffered a great deal, but after such sorrow is yours there comes quietness and resignation. Nature will help you." Oh, if you could give me some of your strength! I have never been able to look at life as you do. I should never have married him if I hadn't been tempted by the thoughts of living easily, and I feared so, that I might always be alone.

Starting point is 13:15:15 My sisters are so miserable. It terrified me to think of struggling on through life as they do." Your mistake was in looking only at the weak women. You had other examples before you—girls like Miss Vesper and Miss Haven, who live bravely and work hard, and are proud of their place in the world. But it's idle to talk of the past, and just as foolish to speak as if you were sorrowing without hope. How old are you, Monica? Two and twenty? Well, I am to two and third. And I don't call myself old.

Starting point is 13:15:47 When you have reached my age, I prophesy you will smile at your despair of ten years ago. At your age one talk so readily of wrecked life and hopeless future, and all that kind of thing. My dear girl, you may live to be one of the most contented and most useful women in England. Your life isn't wrecked at all. Nonsense. You have gone through a storm, that's true. But more likely than not you'll be all the better for it.

Starting point is 13:16:12 Don't talk or think about sins. You can't make up your mind that you won't be beaten by trials and hardships. There cannot—can there? Be the least doubt as to how you ought to live through these next coming months. Your duty is perfectly clear. Strengthen yourself in body and mind. You have a mind—which is more than to be said of a great many women. Think bravely and nobly of yourself.

Starting point is 13:16:35 Say to yourself, This and that it is in me to do, and I will do it." Monica bent suddenly forward and took one of her friends' hands. and clung to it. "'I knew you could say something that would help me. You have a way of speaking. But it isn't only now. I shall be so far away and so lonely all through the dark winter. Will you write to me?'

Starting point is 13:16:59 "'Gladly, and tell you all we are doing.' Rhoda's voice sank for a moment. Her eyes wandered, but she recovered the air of confidence. "'We seemed to have lost you, but before long you will be one of us again. I mean you will be one of the women who are fighting in woman's cause. You will prove by your life that we can be responsible human beings, trustworthy, conscious of purpose. Tell me, do you think it right for me to live with my husband when I can't even regard him as a friend? In that I dare not counsel you.

Starting point is 13:17:34 If you can think of him as a friend in time to come, surely it will be better. But here you must guide yourself. You seem to have made a very sensible arrangement, and before long you will see many things more clearly. Try to recover health. Health! That is what you need. Drink in the air of the Seven Sea.

Starting point is 13:17:53 It will be a cordial to you after this stifling London. Next summer I shall—I hope I shall be at Cheddar, and then I shall come over to Cleveland, and we shall laugh and talk as if we had never known a care. Ah, if that time will come. But you have done me good. I shall try." She rose. "'I mustn't forget,' said Rhoda, looking at her,

Starting point is 13:18:18 "'that I owe you thanks. You've done what you felt was right in spite of all it cost you, and you have very greatly relieved my mind. Of course it is all a secret between us. If I make it understood that a doubt is no longer troubling me, I shall never say how it was removed. How I wish I had come before! For your own sake, if I have really helped you,

Starting point is 13:18:39 I wish you had. But as for anything else, it is much better as it is." And Rhoda stood with a wrecked head, smiling her smile of liberty. Monica did not dare to ask any question. She moved up to her friend, holding out both hands timidly. "'Good-bye. "'Till next summer.' They embraced and kissed each other.

Starting point is 13:19:04 Monica, when she had withdrawn her hot lips, again murmuring words of gratitude. Then in silence they went together to the house-door, and in silence parted. End of Chapter 29. Chapter 30 of the Odd Women. This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Elizabeth Clet. The Odd Women by George Gissing. Chapter 30 Retreat with Honor

Starting point is 13:19:34 Alighting on his return to London at the Savoy Hotel, Barfoot in sense of prolonged his stay there. For the present he had no need of a more private dwelling. He could not see more than a few days ahead. His next decisive step was as uncertain as it had been during the first few months after his coming back from the east. Meantime, he led a sufficiently agreeable life. The Brissendons were not in town, but his growing intimacy with that family had extended his social outlook, and in a direction correspondent with the change in his own circumstances. He was making friends in the world with which he had a natural affinity, that of wealthy and cultured people who seek no prominence, who shrink from contact with the circles known as

Starting point is 13:20:19 smart, who possess their souls in quiet freedom. It is a small class, especially distinguished by the charm of its women. Everard had not adapted himself without difficulty to this new atmosphere. From the first he recognized its soothing and bracing quality, but his experience had accustomed him to an air more rudely vigorous. It was only after those weeks spent abroad in frequent intercourse with the brissendence that he came to understand the full extent of his sympathy with the social principles these men and women represented. In the houses where his welcome was now assured he met some three or four women among whom it would have been difficult to

Starting point is 13:21:00 assign the precedence for grace of manner and of mind. These persons were not in declared revolt against the order of things, religious, ethical, or social—that is to say, they did not think it worthwhile to identify themselves with any movement. They were content with the unopposed right of liberal criticism. They lived placidly, refraining from much that the larger world enjoined, but never aggressive. Everard admired them with increasing fervor. With one exception they were married, and suitably married. That member of the charming group who kept her maiden freedom was Agnes Brissenden. And it seemed to barfoot that, if preference were at all justified, Agnes should receive the palm. His view of her had greatly changed since the early days of their

Starting point is 13:21:48 acquaintance. In fact, he perceived that till of late he had not known her at all. His quick assumption that Agnes was at his disposal if he chose to woo her had been mere fatuity. He misread her perfect simplicity of demeanour, the unconstraint of her intellectual sympathies. What might now be her personal attitude to him he felt altogether uncertain, and the result was a genuine humility such as he had never known. Nor was it Agnes only that subdued his masculine self-assertiveness. Her sisters in grace had scarcely less dominion over him, and at times, as he sat conversing in one of these drawing-rooms he broke off to marvel at himself, to appreciate the perfection

Starting point is 13:22:30 of his own suavity the vast advance he had been making in polished humanism. Towards the end of November he learnt that the Brissendins were at their townhouse, and at a week later he received an invitation to dine with them. Over the luncheon at the hotel Everard reflected with some gravity, for if he were not mistaken, the hour had come when he must make up his mind on a point too long in suspense. What was Rhoda Nun doing? He had heard nothing whatever of her. His cousin Mary wrote to him whilst he was at Ostend in a kindly and friendly friend

Starting point is 13:23:05 tone, informing him that his simple assurance with regard to a certain disagreeable matter was all she had desired, and hoping that he would come and see her as usual when he found himself in London. But he had kept away from the house in Queen's Road, and it was probable that Mary did not even know his address. As the result of meditation he went to his sitting-room, and with an air of reluctance sat down to write a letter. It was a request that Mary would let him see her somewhere or other, not at her house. Couldn't they have a talk at the place in Great Portland Street, when no one else was there?" Mary Barfoot answered with a brief assent. If he liked to come to Great Portland Street at three o'clock on Saturday, she would be awaiting him. On arriving he

Starting point is 13:23:50 inspected the rooms with curiosity. "'I have often wished to come here, Mary. Show me over the premises, will you?' "'That was your purpose?' "'No, not altogether, but you know how your work interests me.' Mary complied, and freely answered his various questions. Then they sat down on hard chairs by the fire, and Everard, leaning forward as if to warm his hands, lost no more time in coming to the point. "'I want to hear about Miss Nunn.'

Starting point is 13:24:22 "'To hear about her? Pray what do you wish to hear?' "'Is she well?' Very well indeed. I'm very glad of that. Does she ever speak of me?" "'Let me see. I don't think she has referred to you lately.'

Starting point is 13:24:41 Everard looked up. "'Don't let us play a comedy, Mary. I want to talk very seriously. Shall I tell you what happened when I went to sea-scale?' "'Ah, you went to sea-scale, did you?' "'Didn't you know that?' he asked, unable to decide the question from his cousin's face, which was quite friendly, but inscrutable.

Starting point is 13:25:05 You went when Miss Nunn was there? Of course. You must have known I was going, when I asked you for her C-scale address. And what did happen? I should be glad to hear, if you feel at liberty to tell me. After a pause, Everard began the narrative, but he did not see fit to give it with all the detail, Mary had learnt from her friend. He spoke of the excursion to Wastwater, and of the subsequent meeting on the shore.

Starting point is 13:25:35 The end of it was that Miss Nun consented to marry me. She consented? That comes as a surprise. Please go on. Well, we arranged everything. Rhoda was to stay till the fifteen days were over, and the marriage would have been there. But then arrived your letter, and we quarrelled about. it. I wasn't disposed to beg and pray for justice. I told Rhoda that her wish for evidence was an insult, that I would take no step to understand Mrs. Whitterson's behaviour. Roda was illogical, I think. She did not refuse to take my word, but she wouldn't marry

Starting point is 13:26:14 me until the thing was cleared up. I told her that she must investigate it for herself, and so we parted in no very good temper." Miss Barfoot smiled and mused. Her duty she now felt convinced, was to abstain from any sort of meddling. These two people must settle their affairs as they chose. To interfere was to incur an enormous responsibility. For what she had already done in that way, Mary reproved herself. Now, I want to ask you a plain question, Everard resumed. That letter you wrote to me at Ostend, did it represent Rhoda's mind as well as your own?

Starting point is 13:26:55 It's quite impossible for me to say. I didn't know, Rode's mind." "'Well, perhaps that is a satisfactory answer. It implies no doubt that she was still resolved not to concede the point on which I insisted. But since then, has she come to a decision?' It was necessary to prevaricate. Mary knew of the interview between Miss Nunn and Mrs. Whittison, knew its result, but she would not hint at this. I have no means of judging how she regards you everard.

Starting point is 13:27:27 Is it possible she even thinks me a liar?" I understood you to say that she never refused to believe you." He made a movement of impatience. "'Plainly you will tell me nothing.' "'I have nothing to tell.' "'Then I suppose I must see Rhoda. Perhaps she will refuse to admit me.' "'I can't say.

Starting point is 13:27:51 But if she does her meaning would be unmistakable.' "'Cousin' He looked at her and laughed. "'I think you'll be very glad if she does refuse.' She seemed about to reply with some pleasantry, but checked herself and spoke in a serious voice. "'No, I have no such feeling. Whatever you both agree upon will satisfy me.

Starting point is 13:28:16 So come by all means if you wish. I can have nothing to do with it. You had better write and ask her if she will see you, I should think.' Farfoot rose from his seat, and Mary was glad to be released so quickly from a disagreeable situation. For her own part she had no need to put in discreet questions. Everard's manner acquainted her quite sufficiently with what was going on in his thoughts. However he still had something to say. You think I have behaved rather badly. Let us say harshly.

Starting point is 13:28:49 I am not so foolish as to form any judgment in such a case, Cousin Everard." Speaking as a woman— Should you say that Rhoda had reason on her side, in the first instance?" "'I think,' Mary replied with reluctance, but deliberately, "'that she was not unreasonable in wishing to postpone her marriage, until she knew what was to be the result of Mrs. Whittison's indiscreet behaviour. "'Well, perhaps she was not,' Everard admitted thoughtfully. "'And what has been the result?'

Starting point is 13:29:25 I only know that Mrs. Whittison has left London, and gone to live at a house her husband has taken somewhere in the country." I am relieved to hear that. By the by the by, the little lady's indiscreet behaviour is as much a mystery to me as ever. "'And to me?' Mary replied with an air of indifference. Why, then, let us take it for granted that I was rather harsh with Rhoda. But suppose she still meets me with the remark that things are just as they were—that nothing

Starting point is 13:29:54 is being explained. I can't discuss your relations with Miss Nunn. However, you defend her original action. Be so good as to admit that I can't go to Mrs. Whittison, and request her to publish a statement that I have never—'I shall admit nothing," interrupted Miss Barfoot rather tartly. I have advised you to see Miss Nun, if she is willing, and there's nothing more to be said. Good. I will write to her."

Starting point is 13:30:22 He did so, in the fewest possible words. words, and received an answer of equal brevity. In accordance with permission granted, on the Monday evening he found himself once more in his cousin's drawing-room, sitting alone, waiting Miss Nunn's appearance. He wondered how she would present herself, in what costume. Her garb proved to be a plain dress of blue serge, certainly not calculated for effect. But his eye at once distinguished the fact that she had arranged her hair as she wore it when he first knew her, a fashion subsequently abandoned for one that he thought more becoming. They shook hands.

Starting point is 13:31:02 Externally, Barfoot was the more agitated, and his embarrassment appeared in the awkward words with which he began. I had made up my mind never to come, until you let me know that I was tried and acquitted. But after all it is better to have reason on one side. Much better," replied Rhoda, with a smile which emphasized her ambiguity. She sat down, and he followed her example. Their relative positions called to mind many a conversation they had held in this room. Barfoot, he wore evening dress, settled in the comfortable chair as though he were an ordinary

Starting point is 13:31:40 guest. "'I suppose you would never have written to me.' "'Never,' she answered quietly. "'Because you are too proud—' or because the mystery is still a mystery. There is no longer any mystery." Everard made a movement of surprise. Indeed, you have discovered what it all meant?

Starting point is 13:32:02 Yes, I know what it all meant. Can you gratify my not unnatural curiosity? I can say nothing about it, except that I know how the misunderstanding arose. Rodo was betraying the effort it had cast her to seem so so self-possessed when she entered. Her colour had deepened, and she spoke hurriedly, unevenly. "'And it didn't occur to you that it would be a kindness, not inconsistent with your dignity, to make me in some way acquainted with this fact?' "'I feel no uneasiness on your account.'

Starting point is 13:32:39 Everard laughed. "'Splendidly frank, as of old. You really didn't care in the least how much I suffered.' "'You misunderstand me. I felt sure that you you didn't suffer at all." "'Ah, I see. You imagined me calm in the assurance that I should some day be justified.' "'I had every reason for imagining it,' rejoined Rhoda. "'Otherwise you would have given some sign.' "'Of course he had deeply offended her by his persistent silence. He had intended to do so first of all, and afterwards had thought it might be as well. Now that he had got over the difficulty

Starting point is 13:33:19 of the meeting, he enjoyed his sense of security. How the interview would end he knew not, but on his side there would be nothing hasty, unconsidered, merely emotional. Had Rhoda any new revelation of personality within her resources? That was the question. If so he would be pleased to observe it. If not, why it was the only end to which he had long ago looked forward. It was not for me to give any sign, he remarked. Yet you have said that it is well to have reason on one side." Perhaps a softer note allowed itself to be detected in these words. In any case they were not plainly ironical.

Starting point is 13:34:01 "'Admit, then, that an approach was due from me. I have made it. I am here.' Rhoda said nothing. Yet she had not an air of expectancy. Her eye was grave, rather sad, as though for the moment she had forgotten what was at issue, and had lost herself in remoter thought. Regarding her, Everard felt a nobility in her countenance which amply justified all that he

Starting point is 13:34:26 had ever felt, and said. But was there anything more? Any new power? So we go back, he pursued. To our day at Wastwater. The perfect day, wasn't it? I shall never wish to forget it, said Rhoda reflectively. And we stand, as when we quitted each other that night.

Starting point is 13:34:49 Do we?" She glanced at him. I think not. Then what is the difference? He waited some seconds, and repeated the question before Rhoda answered. You were conscious of no difference, she said. Months have lapsed. We are different because we are older.

Starting point is 13:35:13 But you speak as if you were conscious of some greater change. Yes, you are changed noticeably. I thought I knew you. Perhaps I did. Now I should have to learn you all over again. It is difficult, you see, for me to keep pace with you. Your opportunities are so much wider." This was puzzling. Did it signify mere jealousy, or a profounder view of things? Her voice had something even of pathos, as though she uttered a simple thought without caustic intention. I try not to waste my life," he answered seriously. I have made new acquaintances.

Starting point is 13:35:55 Will you tell me about them? Tell me first about yourself. You say you would never have written to me. That means I think that you never loved me. When you found that I had been wrongly suspected, and you suspected me yourself, say which you will, if you had loved me you would have asked forgiveness. I have a like reason for doubting your love. If you had loved me you could never have waited so long without trying to remove the obstacle

Starting point is 13:36:22 that was between us." "'It was you who put the obstacle there,' said Everard, smiling. "'No. An unlucky chance did that. Or a lucky one. Who knows?' He began to think, "'If this woman had enjoyed the social advantages to which Agnes Brissenden and those others were doubtless indebted for so much of their charm, would she not have been their equal, or more. For the first time he compassionated Rhoda. She was brave, and circumstances had not been kind to her. At this moment was she not contending with herself? Was not her honesty, her dignity struggling against the impulses of her heart? Rhoda's love had been worth more than

Starting point is 13:37:07 his, and it would be her one love in life. A fatuous reflection, perhaps, yet every moment's observation seemed to confirm it. "'Well now,' he said, "'there's the question which we must decide. "'If you inclined to think that the chance was fortunate—' "'She would not speak. "'We must know each other's mind.' "'Ah, that is so difficult,'

Starting point is 13:37:34 "'Roda murmured, just raising her hand and letting it fall. "'Yes, unless we give each other help, "'let us imagine ourselves back at sea-scale down by the wave, How cold and grim it must be there to-night! I repeat what I said then. Roda, will you marry me?" She looked fixedly at him. You didn't say that, then. What the words matter!

Starting point is 13:38:02 That was not what you said! He watched the agitation of her features, until his gaze seemed to compel her to move. She stepped towards the fireplace, and moved a little screen that stood to near the fender. "'Why do you want me to repeat exactly what I said?' Everard asked, rising and following her. You speak of the perfect day. Didn't the day's perfection end before there was any word of marriage?

Starting point is 13:38:32 He looked at her with surprise. She had spoken without turning her face towards him. It was visible now only by the glow of the fire. Yes, what she said was true, but a truth which he had neither expected nor desired to hear. Had the new revelation prepared itself? Who first used the word, Rhoda? Yes. I did. There was silence. Roda stood unmoving, the fires glow upon her face, and Barfoot watched

Starting point is 13:39:03 her. "'Perhaps,' he said at length, "'I was not quite serious when I—' She turned sharply upon him, a flash of indignation in her eyes. "'Not quite serious? Yes, I have thought that. And were you quite serious in anything you said?' "'I loved you,' he answered curtly, answering her steady look. "'Yet wanted to see whether—' She could not finish the sentence. Her throat quivered. "'I loved you, that's all. And I believe I still love you.' Roda turned to the fire again.

Starting point is 13:39:42 "'Will you marry me?' He asked, moving a step nearer. "'I think you are not quite serious.' "'I have asked you twice. I ask for the third time.' "'I won't marry you with the forms of marriage,' Roder answered in an abrupt, harsh tone. "'Now it is you who play with a serious matter.' "'You said we had both changed. I see now that our perfect day was marred by my weakness at the end. If you wish to go back in imagination to that summer night, restore everything, only let me be what now I am."

Starting point is 13:40:22 Everard shook his head. Impossible. It must be then or now for both of us." "'Legal marriage,' she said, glancing at him, has acquired some new sanction for you since then?" On the whole, perhaps it has. "'Naturally. But I shall never marry, so we will speak no more. more of it. As if, finally dismissing the subject, she walked to the opposite side of the hearth,

Starting point is 13:40:50 and there turned towards her companion with a cold smile. In other words, then, you have ceased to love me? Yes, I no longer love you. Yet if I had been willing to revive that fantastic idealism, as you thought it, she interrupted him sternly. What was it? Oh, a kind of idealism, undoubtedly, I was so bent on making sure that you loved me." She laughed.

Starting point is 13:41:21 After all the perfection of our day was half make-believe. You never loved me with entire sincerity, and you will never love any woman, even as well as you loved me. Upon my soul I believe it, Rhoda. And even now—and even now it is just possible for us to say good-bye with something like friendliness, but not if you talk longer. Don't let us spoil it. Things are so straight and clear." A threatened sob made her break off, but she recovered herself, and offered him her hand. He walked all the way back to his hotel, and the cold, clammy night restored his equanimity. A fortnight later, sending a Christmas present with greetings to Mr. and Mrs. Micklethwaite,

Starting point is 13:42:10 he wrote thus. I am about to do my duty, as you put it, that is, to marry. The name of my future wife is Miss Agnes Brissenden. It'll be in March, I think. But I shall see you before, then, and give you a fuller account of myself. End of Chapter 30. Chapter 31 of the Odd Women This Librevox recording is in the public domain.

Starting point is 13:42:44 Recording by Elizabeth Clette. The Odd Women by George Gissing Chapter 31 A New Beginning Wittison tried two or three lodgings He settled at length in a small house at Hampstead occupying two plain rooms Here at long intervals

Starting point is 13:43:05 His friend Newdick came to see him But no one else He had brought with him a selection of solid books from his library And over these the greater part of each day was spent Not that he studied with any zeal. Reading, and of a kind that demanded close attention, was his only resource against melancholia. He knew not how else to occupy himself. Adam Smith's classical work, perused with laborious thoroughness, gave him employment for a couple of months. Subsequently, he plodded through all the volumes of Hallam.

Starting point is 13:43:38 His landlady and the neighbors who were at leisure to observe him when he went out for his two hours' walk in the afternoon took him for an old day. gentleman of sixty-five or so. He no longer held himself upright, and when out of doors, seldom raised his eyes from the ground. Gray streaks had begun to brindle his hair, his face grew yellower and more deeply furrowed. Of his personal appearance, even of cleanliness, he became neglectful, and occasionally it happened that he lay in bed all through the morning, reading, dozing, or in a state of mental vacuity. It was long since he had seen his relative the Sprightly widow, but he had heard from her.

Starting point is 13:44:19 On the point of leaving England for her summer holiday Mrs. Luke sent him a few lines, urging him in the language of the world to live more sensibly and let his wife have her head, now and then. It would be better for both of them. Then followed the time of woe, and for many weeks he gave no thought to Mrs. Luke. But close upon the end of the year he received one day a certain society journal, addressed in a hand he knew to the house at Herne Hill. In it was discoverable, marked with a red pencil, the following paragraph.

Starting point is 13:44:54 Among the English who this year elected to take their repose in recreation at Truville, there was no more brilliant figure than Mrs. Luke Whitteson. This lady is well known in the Monde, where one never son-wee, where smart people are gathered together, there is the charming widow sure to be seen. We are able to announce that, before leaving Truville, Mrs. Whitterson had consented to a private engagement with Captain William Horrocks, no other indeed than Captain Bill, the universal favourite, so beloved by hostesses as a sure dancing man. By the lamented death of his father, this best of good fellows has now become Sir William, and we understand that his marriage will be celebrated after the proper delays.

Starting point is 13:45:40 Our congratulations!" Subsequently arrived a newspaper with an account of the marriage. Mrs. Luke was now Lady Horrocks. She had the title desired of her heart. Another two months went by, and there came a letter, readdressed like the other communications at the post-office, in which the Baronet's wife declared herself anxious to hear of her friends. She found they had left Herne Hill. If this letter reached him, would not Edmund come and see her at her house in Wimpole Street?

Starting point is 13:46:13 Misery of solitude, desire for a woman's sympathy and counsel, impelled him to use this opportunity, little as it seemed to promise. He went to Wimpole Street and had a very long private talk with Lady Horrocks, who in some way he could not understand, had changed from her old self. She began frivolously, but in rather a dull make-believely way, and when she heard that Whittison had parted from his wife, when a few vague, miserable words had suggested the domestic drama so familiar to her observation, she at once grew quiet, sober, sympathetic, as if really glad to have something serious to talk about.

Starting point is 13:46:52 Now look here, Edmund, tell the whole story from the first. You're the sort of man to make awful blunders in such a case as this. Just tell me all about it. I'm not a bad sort to you know, and I have troubles of my own. I don't mind telling you so much. Women make fools of themselves—well, never mind. Just tell me about the little girl, and see if we can't square things somehow. He had a struggle with himself, but at length narrated everything, often interrupted by shrewd questions. "'No one writes to you,' the listener finally inquired.

Starting point is 13:47:32 "'I'm expecting to hear from them.' was Whittison's answer, as he sat in the usual position, head hanging forward, and hands clasped between his knees. "'To hear what?' "'I think I shall be sent for.' "'Sent for? To make it up?' "'She is going to give birth to a child.'

Starting point is 13:47:53 Lady Horax nodded twice thoughtfully, and with a faint smile. "'How did you find this out?' "'I have known it long enough. Her sister Virginia told me before they went away. I had a suspicion all at once, and I forced her to tell me. "'And if you are sent for, shall you go?' Whittison seemed to mutter an affirmative, and added, "'I shall hear what she has to tell me as she promised.'

Starting point is 13:48:21 "'Is it—is it possible?' The lady's question remained incomplete. Whittison, though he understood it, vouchsafed no direct answer. intense suffering was manifest in his face, and at length he spoke vehemently. "'Whatever she tells me, how can I believe it? When once a woman has lied, how can she ever again be believed? I can't be sure of anything.' "'All that fibbing,' remarked Lady Horrocks,

Starting point is 13:48:53 "'has an unpleasant look, no denying it. She got entangled somehow. But I think you had better believe that she pulled up just in time.' "'I have no love for her left,' he went on in a despairing voice. It all perished in those frightful days. I tried hard to think that I still loved her. I kept writing letters, but they meant nothing. Or they only meant that I was driven half crazy by wretchedness.

Starting point is 13:49:22 I had rather we lived on as we have been doing. It's miserable enough for me, God knows. But it would be worse to try and behave to her as if I could forget everything. I know her explanation won't satisfy me. Whatever it is, I shall still suspect her. I don't know that the child is mine. It may be. Perhaps as it grows up there will be a likeness to help me make sure.

Starting point is 13:49:46 But what a life! Every paltry trifle will make me uneasy. And if I discovered any fresh deceit, I should do something terrible. You don't know how near I was!' He shuddered and hid his face. The Othello business won't. do," said Lady Horrocks not unkindly. You couldn't have gone on together, of course.

Starting point is 13:50:08 You had to part for a time. Well, that's all over. Take it as something that couldn't be helped. You were behaving absurdly, you know. I told you plainly. I guessed there'd be trouble. You oughtn't to have married at all, that's the fact. It would be better for most of us if we kept out of it.

Starting point is 13:50:26 Some marry for a good reason, some for a bad, and mostly it all comes to the same in the end. But there, never mind. Pull yourself together, dear boy. It's all nonsense about not caring for her. Of course you're eating your heart out for want of her. And I'll tell you what I think. It's very likely Monica was pulled up just in time by discovering—'

Starting point is 13:50:48 You understand? That she was more your wife than any one else's. Something tells me that's how it was. Just try to look at him that way. If the child lives she'll be different. She is sowed her wild oats. Why shouldn't a woman as well as a man? Go down to Clevedon and forgive her. You're an honest man, and it isn't every woman—never mind.

Starting point is 13:51:12 I could tell you stories about people—but you wouldn't care to hear them. Just take things with a laugh—we all have to—lifes as you take it—all gloom, or moderately shiny." With much more to the same solacing effect. For the time Whittison was perchance a trifle comforted. At all events he went away with a sense of gratitude to Lady Horrocks, and when he had left the house he remembered that not even a civil formality with regard to Sir William had fallen from his lips. But Sir William's wife, for whatever reason, had also not once mentioned the Baronet's name.

Starting point is 13:51:53 Only a few days passed before Whittison received the summons he was expecting. It came in the form of a telegram, bidding him hasten to his wife. Not a word of news added. At the time of its arrival he was taking his afternoon walk. This delay made it doubtful whether he could get to Paddington by six-twenty, the last train which would enable him to reach Clevedon that night. He managed it, with only two or three minutes to spare. Not till he was seated in the railway carriage could he fix his thoughts on the end of the journey. An inexpressible repugnance then affected him. He would have welcomed any disaster to the train, any injury which might prevent his going to Monica at such a time. Often in anticipation the event which was now come to pass had confused

Starting point is 13:52:40 and darkened his mind. He loathed the thought of it. If the child, perhaps already born, were in truth his, it must be very long before he could regard it with a shadow of paternal interest. Uncertainty to which he was condemned would in all likelihood make it an object of aversion to him as long as he lived. He was at Bristol by a quarter past nine, and had to change for a slow train, which by ten o'clock brought him to Yatton, the little junction for Clevedon. It was a fine, starry night, but extremely cold. For the first few minutes of detention he walked restlessly about the platform.

Starting point is 13:53:17 His chief emotion was now a fear lest all might not go well with Monica. Whether he could believe what she had to tell him or not, it would be worse if she were to die before he could hear her explanation. the anguish of remorse would seize upon him. Alone in his compartment, he did not sit down, but stamped backwards and forwards on the floor, and before the train stopped he jumped out. No cab was procurable. He left his bag at the station, and hastened with all speed in the direction that he remembered. But very soon the crossways had confused him. As he met no one whom he could ask to direct him, he had to knock at a door. Streaming with perspiration he came

Starting point is 13:53:58 at length within sight of his own house. A church clock was striking eleven. Alice and Virginia were both standing in the hall when the door was opened. They beckoned him into a room. "'Is it over?' he asked, staring from one to the other with his dazzled eyes. "'At four this afternoon,' answered Alice, scarce able to articulate. "'A little girl!' "'She had to have chloroform,' said Virginia, who looked a miserable lifeless object, and shook like one in an ague. And all's well? "'We think so. We hope so,' they stammered together.

Starting point is 13:54:39 Alice added that the doctor was to make another call to-night. They had a good nurse. The infant seemed healthy, but was a very, very little mite, and had only made its voice heard for a few minutes. "'She knows you sent for me.' "'Yes, and we have something to give you. You will. You will. were to have this as soon as you arrived?" Miss Madden handed him a sealed envelope. Then both the sisters drew away, as if fearing the result of what they had done.

Starting point is 13:55:08 Whittison just glanced at the unaddressed missive and put it into his pocket. "'I must have something to eat,' he said, wiping his forehead. When the doctor comes I'll see him. This visit took place while he was engaged on his supper. Uncoming down from the patient the doctor gave him in a assurance that things were progressing fairly well. The morning probably would enable him to speak with yet more confidence. Whittison had another brief conversation with the sisters, then bade them good-night, and went to the room that had been prepared for him. As he closed the door, he heard

Starting point is 13:55:44 a thin, faint wail, and stood listening till it ceased. It came from a room on the floor below. Having brought himself with an effort to open the envelope he had received, he found several sheets of paper, one of them remarked immediately in a man's writing, at this he first glanced, and the beginning showed him that it was a love-letter written to Monica. He threw it aside and took up the other sheets, which contained a long communication from his wife. It was dated two months ago. In it Monica recounted to him, with scrupulous truthfulness, the whole story of her relations with Bevis. "'I only make this confession,' so she concluded.

Starting point is 13:56:27 for the sake of the poor child that will soon be born. The child is yours, and ought not to suffer because of what I did. The enclosed letter will prove this to you, if anything can. For myself I ask nothing. I don't think I shall live. If I do, I will consent to anything you propose. I only ask you to behave without any pretense. If you cannot forgive me, do not make a show of it.

Starting point is 13:56:54 Say what your will is, and that shall be enough. He did not go to bed that night. There was a fire in the room, and he kept it alight till daybreak, when he descended softly to the hall and let himself out of the house. In a fierce wind that swept from the north-west down the foaming channel he walked for an hour or two, careless whither the roads directed him. All he desired was to be at a distance from that house, with its hideous silence and the faint cry that could scarcely be called a sound.

Starting point is 13:57:26 The necessity of returning, of spending days there, was an oppression which held him like a nightmare. Monica's statement he neither believed nor disbelieved, he simply could not make up his mind about it. She had lied to him so resolutely before. Was she not capable of elaborate falsehood to save her reputation and protect her child? The letter from Bevis might have been a result of conspiracy between them. That Bevis was the man against whom his jealousy should have been directed at first astoundingly. him. By now he had come to a full perception of his stupidity in never entertaining such

Starting point is 13:58:02 a thought. The revelation was equivalent to a second offence just discovered, for he found it impossible to ignore his long, cherished suspicion of Barfoot, and he even surmised the possibility of Monica's having listened to love-making from that quarter previously to her intimacy with Bevis. He loathed the memory of his life since marriage, and as for pardoning his wife, he could as soon pardon and smile upon the author of that accursed letter from Bordeaux. But go back to the house he must. By obeying his impulse, and straightway returning to London, he might be the cause of a fatal turn in Monica's illness. Constraint of bare humanity would keep him here until his wife was out of danger. But he could not see her, and as soon as possible he must escape from

Starting point is 13:58:48 such unendurable circumstances. Re-entering at half-past eight, he was met by Alice, who, who seemed to have slept as little as he himself had done. They went into the dining-room. "'She has been inquiring about you,' began Miss Madden timorously. "'How is she?' "'Not worse, I believe, but so very weak. She wishes me to ask you—' "'What?'

Starting point is 13:59:15 His manner did not encourage the poor woman. "'I shall be obliged to tell her something. If I have nothing to say she will fret herself into a dangerous state. She wants to know if you have read her letter, and if—if you will see the child." Whittison turned away and stood a resolute. He felt Miss Madden's hand upon his arm. "'Oh, don't refuse. Let me give her some comfort.' "'It's the child she's anxious about.' Alice admitted it, looking into her brother-in-law's face with woeful appeal.

Starting point is 13:59:49 "'Say I will see it,' he answered, "'and have it brought into some room. Then say I have seen it." "'Mayn't I take her a word of forgiveness?' "'Yes. Say I forgive her. She doesn't wish me to go to her.' Alice shook her head. "'Then say I forgive her.' As he directed, so it was done, and in the course of the morning Mess Madden brought word to him that her sister had experienced great relief. She was sleeping. But the doctor thought it necessary to make two visits before nightfall, and late in the evening

Starting point is 14:00:26 he came again. He explained to Wittison that there were complications, not unlikely to be dangerous. And finally he suggested that, if the morrow brought no decided improvement, a second medical man should be called in to consult. This consultation was held. In the afternoon Virginia came weeping to her brother-in-law, and told him that Monica was delirious. That night night the whole household watched. Another day was passed in the gravest anxiety, and at dusk the medical attendant no longer disguised his opinion that Mrs. Whittison was sinking. She became unconscious soon after, and in the early morning breathed her last. Whittison was in the room, and at the end sat by the bedside for an hour. But he did not

Starting point is 14:01:13 look upon his wife's face. When it was told him that she had ceased to breathe, he rose and went into his own chamber, death pale, but tearless. On the day after the funeral, Monica was buried in the cemetery, which is hard by the old church. Whittison and the elder sister had a long conversation in private. It related first of all to the motherless baby. Whittison's desire was that Miss Madden should undertake the care of the child. She and Virginia might live wherever they preferred, their needs would be provided for. had hardly dared hope for such a proposal, as it concerned the child, that is to say.

Starting point is 14:01:54 Gladly she accepted it. "'But there's something I must tell you,' she said with embarrassed appeal in her wet eyes. "'Poor Virginia wishes to go into an institution.' Whittison looked at her, not understanding, whereupon she broke into tears, and made known that her sister was such a slave to strong drink that they both despaired of reformation, unless by help of the measure she had indicated. There were people she had heard, who undertook the care of inebriates." "'You know that we are by no means penniless,' sobbed Alice.

Starting point is 14:02:29 "'We can very well bear the expense. But will you assist us to find a suitable place?' He promised to proceed at once in the matter. "'And when she is cured,' said Miss Madden, "'she shall come and live with me. And when baby is about two years old, we will do you. do what we have been purposing for a long time. We will open a school for young children, either here or at Weston. That will afford my poor sister occupation. Indeed we shall both be better for the exertion of such an undertaking. Don't you think so?"

Starting point is 14:03:02 It would be a wise thing. I have no doubt whatever." The large house was to be abandoned, and as much of the furniture as seemed needful transported to a smaller dwelling in another part of Clevedon. For Alice resolved to stay here in spite of painful associations. She loved the place, and looked forward with quiet joy to the life that was prepared for her. Whittison's books would go back to London—not to the Hampstead lodgings, however. Fearful of solitude he proposed to his friend Newdick that they should live together, he as a man of substance bearing the larger share of the expense. And this plan also came into execution.

Starting point is 14:03:45 Three months went by, and on a day of summer, when the wooded hills and green lanes and rich meadows of Clevedon looked their best, when the channel was still and blue, and the Welsh mountains loomed through a sunny haze. Rhoda Nunn came over from the Mendibs to see Miss Madden. It could not be a gladsome meeting, but Rhoda was bright and natural, and her talk as and spiriting as ever. She took the baby in her arms, and walked about with it for a long time in the garden, often murmuring, "'Poor little child! Dear little child!' There had been doubt whether it would live, but the summer seemed to be fortifying its health.

Starting point is 14:04:26 Alice, it was plain, had found her vocation. She looked better than at any time since Roda had known her. Her complexion was losing its muddiness and spottyness. Her step had become light and brisk." "'And where is your sister?' inquired Miss Nunn. Staying with friends at present, she will be back before long, I hope. And as soon as baby can walk we are going to think very seriously about the school. You remember? The school?

Starting point is 14:04:54 You will really make the attempt. It would be so good for us both. Why, look!" she added laughingly, "'Here is one pupil growing for us. "'Make a brave woman of her,' said Rhoda kindly. "'We will try. Oh, we will try.' "'And is your work as successful as ever?' "'More,' replied Rhoda. "'We flourish like the green bay-tree. We shall have to take larger premises.

Starting point is 14:05:25 By the by, you must read the paper we are going to publish. The first number will be out in a month, though the name isn't quite decided upon yet. Miss Barfoot was never in such health and spirit, nor I myself. The world is moving." Whilst Miss Madden went into the house to prepare hospitalities, Rhoda, still nursing, sat down on a garden bench. She gazed intently at those diminutive features, which were quite placid and relaxing in soft drowsiness.

Starting point is 14:05:59 The dark, bright eye was Monica's. And as the baby sank into sleep, Rode Herod's vision grew dim. A sigh made her lips quiver, and once more she murmured, "'Poor little child!' End of Chapter 31. End of the Odd Women by George Gissing

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