He had treated her abominably, had finally deserted her, and she was trying to get a divorce.

I did my best to help her, and eventually she obtained it." He paused a moment, then went on with bent head, "I never saw her after she gained her freedom.

She went to her people, and very soon after--she died." Again he paused, then slowly straightened himself.
"I never cared for any woman after that," he said, "until I met you.

As for Brandon, he kept out of my way, and I had no object in seeking him.
In fact, I took no interest in his doings till I found that you were in Mrs.Lockyard's set.

That, I admit, was something of a shock.