The narrative unfolds around Oscar Thesiger, a man grappling with unrequited love for Vera Walters, who has just rejected his marriage proposal without explanation. Thesiger finds himself in Cannes, observing a beautiful American woman, Roma Lennox, who captivates him despite his lingering thoughts of Vera. The story explores themes of desire, jealousy, and the complexities of human relationships. Thesiger's internal conflict intensifies as he reflects on his feelings for Vera, contrasting them with his attraction to Roma. He is frustrated by Vera's refusal to articulate her reasons for rejecting him, leading him to question his worthiness and the nature of their relationship. Meanwhile, Roma's presence becomes a source of both distraction and temptation, as Thesiger grapples with his emotions. As the evening progresses, Thesiger's fascination with Roma deepens. He observes her interactions with two men, Mr. Tarbuck and Binky, and feels a mix of admiration and disdain for them. The narrative delves into Thesiger's prejudices against Americans, particularly their perceived lack of refinement, which complicates his feelings for Roma. The plot thickens when Thesiger encounters Roma alone in the Place before the Casino. Their conversation reveals Roma's awareness of Thesiger's feelings for Vera and her own interest in him. Roma challenges Thesiger's assumptions about her character and the nature of her relationships with the men accompanying her. She explains her role in caring for Binky, who struggles with alcoholism, and defends her choices against Thesiger's judgments. The dialogue between Thesiger and Roma is charged with tension as they navigate their mutual attraction and the implications of their respective pasts. Roma's candidness about her situation and her desire to help Thesiger confront his feelings for Vera create a dynamic interplay between them. Thesiger's initial reluctance to engage with Roma transforms into a recognition of her strength and complexity. As the night unfolds, Thesiger begins to see the possibility of moving beyond his fixation on Vera. Roma's influence encourages him to reconsider his approach to love and relationships. The story culminates in a moment of clarity for Thesiger, as he acknowledges the need to confront his feelings and make amends with Vera. The work ultimately examines the interplay of appearances and reality in human connections, highlighting the often-misunderstood motivations behind people's actions. Thesiger's journey reflects a broader exploration of desire, identity, and the search for genuine connection amidst societal expectations and personal insecurities.
By May Sinclair · First published 1918 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Romance, Psychological Fiction · 4 chapters