THE FALL OF EDWARD BARNARD, A SHORT STORY BY W. SOMERSET MAUGHAM

 Hello dear readers and fellow bloggers! In this post, I'll share a review for a short story The Fall of Edward Barnard by William Somerset Maugham.  In my last post, I reviewed The Painted Veil and did my best to avoid spoilers. Today I'll focus on one of his short stories about an engagement, but my review shan't be spoiler free. I'm actually currently reading The Complete Short Stories by Maugham (you can read it for free on project Gutenberg).  Published in 1921, The Fall of Edward Barnard  is a wonderfully ambiguous and modernist piece of writing that through irony, contrasts the the East and the West. Indeed, you might say that Maugham criticizes the Western culture, or at least its perceived inability to appreciate other cultures, and a simpler way of life. 

As I mentioned in my last review, I became acquainted with Maugham's writing only last year when I happened upon one of his short stories on some audiobook Youtube channel. It's lovely how many people donate their time reading classics, isn't it? It gives one hope for humanity. Anyhow, I was immediately drawn to his writing. I downloaded his collected short stories on my cellphone, but I must have forgotten about it until I happened upon the movie and read the book. 

Yesterday, I was scheduled to receive my regular biologics medicines in the hospital. The drug is administer through IV and it usually takes 2- 3 hours. So, I decided to use that time to catch up on my rereading. Surely enough, I managed to finish The Fall of Edward Barnard.  I immensely enjoyed reading this complex story. The subtleness of the writing  made me think of Henry James and Guy de Maupassant. So, I'm looking forward to sharing this review with you. All the quotes I'm going to use are from project Gutenberg. This post was originally written in English, so if you're reading it with a translator, there might be some slight differences from the original text. 

The photographs I'm sharing today are not directly linked to the book. The location is Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The story of my outfit? The belt bag was most recently worn with three different outfits in my Monte-Cristo review post, the leopard heels in this post and the animal print and striped dress here.

THE FALL OF EDWARD BARNARD, A SHORT STORY BY W. SOMERSET MAUGHAM 4.8/5 

WHAT KIND OF SHORT STORY IS IT? WHAT GENRE DOES IT FALL INTO? 

I would define this short story a work of modernism with elements of realism. Certainly, the writer uses irony to contrast the cultural clash. Plus, he adds some philosophical touches. Still, I felt there is some ambiguity to this piece. 

WHAT NARRATIVE VOICE DOES IT USE? HOW LONG IS IT? 

Written in the third person voice, it not a typical work told from a point of view of an all knowing narrator. The dialogues take a huge portion of this story. There's a lot of ambiguity. I felt like the reader was actually invited and encouraged to make his own conclusions. 

WHO ARE THE CHARACTERS IN THIS SHORT STORY? HOW ARE THEY PORTRAYED? 

The main characters are the two young  best friends from Chicago: Bateman and Edward. There's also a girl they are in love with. They are portrayed mostly through dialogues. What do I mean? Well, I think the author gives them a chance to describe themselves. Yes, there are also descriptions of them, but it is through their conversations that we get to know who they really are. The author gives us subtle clues about their personality thorough the story.

WHAT IS THE PLOT OF THIS SHORT STORY LIKE?

The plot revolves around an engagement. There is a love triangle of sorts, with two best friends being in love with the same women. However, the emphasis is the inner life of the protagonist Edward, who claims to have found the purpose in his life. The story contrasts the Western and the Eastern culture. 

THE OPENING OF THE STORY INTRODUCES US TO A TROUBLED BATEMAN HUNTMAN WHO IS CURENTLY ON THE A JOURNEY THAT TAKES HIM FROM TAHITI TO SAN FRANCESCO AND THEN FROM SANT FRANCESCO TO CHICAGO

There's a bit of foreshadowing in the very opening paragraph, that will become evident later on and shall add to the ambiguity of the story. One of the main characters, Bateman Hunter, is not able to sleep right, in contrast to his friend (about whom we are yet to learn). This will give us grounds for guessing and infuse a dose of ambiguity into the story. Is Bateman really as certain of his choices as he appears? Why does he repeats this story in his head? What kind of story is it? Why is he sleeping badly? Does it imply that he is unsure of the story that he's going to tell? 

Bateman Hunter slept badly. For a fortnight on the boat that brought him from Tahiti to San Francisco he had been thinking of the story he had to tell, and for three days on the train he had repeated to himself the words in which he meant to tell it. 

THE SETTING IS ESTABLISHED- BATEMAN WOULD SOON BE IN CHICAGO

In only two short sentences, the author has managed to establish not only that the protagonist Bateman is troubled and tired, but that he had been for some time now. What Maugham proceeds to do is to assure us that Bateman is a respectable young man by explaining the reason why he worries so. However, as readers we still don't have any idea what Maugham is talking about. We find ourselves in mid of a journey, with a man filled with doubts, we don't know anything about. Naturally, this makes us focus on this protagonist all the more. Maybe that is why Maugham does it, he tells us nothing of the plot, but he introduces the setting and the character quite well. Chicago is the home of this character, that is where he belongs. 

But in a few hours now he would be in Chicago, and doubts assailed him. His conscience, always very sensitive, was not at ease. He was uncertain that he had done all that was possible, it was on his honour to do much more than the possible, and the thought was disturbing that, in a matter which so nearly touched his own interest, he had allowed his interest to prevail over his quixotry. 

I wonder whether the author was a little bit ironic when he explained how Bateman was somewhat disappointed that he had lost the chance for self-sacrifice. Perhaps he merely wants to stress that Bateman was used to this idea of a self-sacrifice. 

Self-sacrifice appealed so keenly to his imagination that the inability to exercise it gave him a sense of disillusion. He was like the philanthropist who with altruistic motives builds model dwellings for the poor and finds that he has made a lucrative investment. He cannot prevent the satisfaction he feels in the ten per cent which rewards the bread he had cast upon the waters, but he has an awkward feeling that it detracts somewhat from the savour of his virtue.

BATMAN HUNTMAN KNOW HIS HEART WAS PURE BUT WORRIES ABOUT ENDURING ISABEL'S SCRUTINY

Isabel is mentioned for the first time. The author doesn't tell us much about her expect that Batman worries about recounting something to her. We learn that her cool grey eyes are far-seeing wise. Is this the opinion of Bateman or the third person narrator? Perhaps both. Isabel is certainly described as an extraordinary woman.  Still, as readers we have many questions at this point. Why does he worry so? What is Bateman's relationship with Isabel? 

Bateman Hunter knew that his heart was pure, but he was not quite sure how steadfastly, when he told her his story, he would endure the scrutiny of Isabel Longstaffe's cool grey eyes. They were far-seeing and wise. 

WHAT IS ISABEL LONGSTAFFE'S LIKE? 

Immediately after expressing Bateman's worries, the writers starts his description of Isabel. She is described as woman with high standards who doesn't change her mind.

She measured the standards of others by her own meticulous uprightness and there could be no greater censure than the cold silence with which she expressed her disapproval of a conduct that did not satisfy her exacting code. There was no appeal from her judgment, for, having made up her mind, she never changed it. 

SUPPOSEDLY BATEMAN LOVES HER FOR THE BEAUTY OF HER SOUL

For Bateman, Isabel is the ideal of  an American woman and he loves her more for her character, than for her beauty. He's also certain that no city could have produced her but Chicago. So, we see that in him all his ideals of patriotism are interlinked with this woman and his home town. 

But Bateman would not have had her different. He loved not only the beauty of her person, slim and straight, with the proud carriage of her head, but still more the beauty of her soul. With her truthfulness, her rigid sense of honour, her fearless outlook, she seemed to him to collect in herself all that was most admirable in his countrywomen. But he saw in her something more than the perfect type of the American girl, he felt that her exquisiteness was peculiar in a way to her environment, and he was assured that no city in the world could have produced her but Chicago. 

BATEMAN IS ANGRY WHEN HE THINKS OF EDWARD- APPARENTLY EDWARD IS THE BLOW TO ISABELA'S PRIDE

So, the story starts to enfold. Isabel is somehow connected to Bateman who is in turn connected to Edward. The writers doesn't hurry in revealing what exactly is at stake. Instead, following a description of Isabel, Maugham makes us focused on what Bateman is feeling. 

A pang seized him when he remembered that he must deal so bitter a blow to her pride, and anger flamed up in his heart when he thought of Edward Barnard.

WHAT KIND OF A MAN IS BATEMAN HUNTER?

Well, everything seems to imply that he is a man with a strong sense of duty, but there's much we don't know about him. It has been revealed that he's a man in love, that he idolizes Isabel and his home town. 

BATEMAN HUNTER IS RELIEVED TO BE BACK TO CHICAGO

After this description of Isabel and Bateman's inner emotional state, we follow him on his journey in train. Finally, Bateman arrives to Chicago where he meets his father. He gives a rather passionate description of Chicago and it seems like he's enamored with the city itself, having in mind a bright future for it. 

But at last the train steamed in to Chicago and he exulted when he saw the long streets of grey houses. He could hardly bear his impatience at the thought of State and Wabash with their crowded pavements, their hustling traffic, and their noise. He was at home. And he was glad that he had been born in the most important city in the United States. San Francisco was provincial, New York was effete; the future of America lay in the development of its economic possibilities, and Chicago, by its position and by the energy of its citizens, was destined to become the real capital of the country.

"I guess I shall live long enough to see it the biggest city in the world," Bateman said to himself as he stepped down to the platform.

His father had come to meet him, and after a hearty handshake, the pair of them, tall, slender, and well-made, with the same fine, ascetic features and thin lips, walked out of the station. Mr. Hunter's automobile was waiting for them and they got in. Mr. Hunter caught his son's proud and happy glance as he looked at the street.

"Glad to be back, son?" he asked.

"I should just think I was," said Bateman.

His eyes devoured the restless scene.

"I guess there's a bit more traffic here than in your South Sea island," laughed Mr. Hunter. "Did you like it there?"

"Give me Chicago, dad," answered Bateman.

HOWEVER, HUNTER SEEMS RELUCNTANT TO TALK ABOUT THE MAN HE WAS TO BRING BACK WITH HIM- EDWARD

Bateman Hunter refuses to discuss Edward with his father and I found that interesting. Is it just a man in love who is occupied with his thoughts or is there something more to it? Having read the story and reading these lines again, I should think there's more. There's uncertainty in Bateman, something that goes beyond his anxiety about Isabel. Bateman cannot phantom what he has seen, what Edward has become. He doesn't believe it any of it, yet he cannot deny what he has seen. Certainly, Bateman is anxious to get in touch with Isabel as soon as possible, but there's more to his unrest than meets the surface. His religion is at stake- and his religion is the kind of life he and Edward both aspired to, an ambitious life. Edward has turned it back on it and Bateman cannot comprehend it. 

"You haven't brought Edward Barnard back with you."

"No."

"How was he?"

Bateman was silent for a moment, and his handsome, sensitive face darkened.

"I'd sooner not speak about him, dad," he said at last.

"That's all right, my son. I guess your mother will be a happy woman to-day."

They passed out of the crowded streets in the Loop and drove along the lake till they came to the imposing house, an exact copy of a château on the Loire, which Mr. Hunter had built himself some years before. As soon as Bateman was alone in his room he asked for a number on the telephone. His heart leaped when he heard the voice that answered him.

HUNTER IS HAPPY WHEN ISABEL ANSWERS THE PHONE 

Bateman is very much a man in love and the following conversation demonstrates that. When he calls Isabel, she suggests meeting for dinner. Naturally, Isabel is aware that Bateman has news. We as readers still don't know all the details, but it's clear that the news is connected to Edward and that Isabel awaits them. Bateman admires Isabel for waiting until dinner, seeing it as another proof of her pride and dignity. 

"Good-morning, Isabel," he said gaily.

"Good-morning, Bateman."

"How did you recognise my voice?"

"It is not so long since I heard it last. Besides, I was expecting you."

"When may I see you?"

"Unless you have anything better to do perhaps you'll dine with us to-night."

....She rang off. It was characteristic of her that she should be able to wait so many unnecessary hours to know what so immensely concerned her. To Bateman there was an admirable fortitude in her restraint.

THE STORY STARS TO UNFOLD- ISABEL PUTS BATEMAN AT EASE WITH HER ARISTOCRATIC MANNERS AND HER EASE OF CONVERSATION 

While at dinner, Bateman makes a striking comparison of Isabel with  a marquise under the shadow of the guillotine. I thought this was an interesting choice of words. Is it because he feels that Isabel is doing her best to ignore the news he might bring? Does she expect the worst? What's exactly going on? The author goes on to describe Isabel's aristocratic ways. While the narration is in third voice, it's obvious we're seeing Isabel through Bateman's eyes. 

At dinner, at which beside himself and Isabel no one was present but her father and mother, he watched her guide the conversation into the channels of an urbane small-talk, and it occurred to him that in just such a manner would a marquise under the shadow of the guillotine toy with the affairs of a day that would know no morrow. Her delicate features, the aristocratic shortness of her upper lip, and her wealth of fair hair suggested the marquise again, and it must have been obvious, even if it were not notorious, that in her veins flowed the best blood in Chicago. The dining-room was a fitting frame to her fragile beauty, for Isabel had caused the house, a replica of a palace on the Grand Canal at Venice, to be furnished by an English expert in the style of Louis XV; and the graceful decoration linked with the name of that amorous monarch enhanced her loveliness and at the same time acquired from it a more profound significance. 

AFTER THE DESCRIPTION THE RICHNESS OF ISABEL'S HOUSE, WE HEARD PRAISE OF HER CONVERSATION AND EDUCATION

Isabel is described as being of rich mind, and it seems that this is what puts Bateman at ease. He feels that he's at the centre of culture and distinction. I suppose that Isabel is a Chicago's aristocrat of sorts, and just being connected to her, makes Bateman feel like he's in a right place. 

For Isabel's mind was richly stored, and her conversation, however light, was never flippant. She spoke now of the Musicale to which she and her mother had been in the afternoon, of the lectures which an English poet was giving at the Auditorium, of the political situation, and of the Old Master which her father had recently bought for fifty thousand dollars in New York. It comforted Bateman to hear her. He felt that he was once more in the civilised world, at the centre of culture and distinction; and certain voices, troubling and yet against his will refusing to still their clamour, were at last silent in his heart.

THE CONVERSATION MOVES FROM A PUBLIC TO A PRIVATE ONE

When the dinner is over, Bateman and Isabel have a private chat and as readers we finally get to learn what it is all about. 

"Now what have you to say to me?" she asked.

"I hardly know how to begin."

"Is Edward Barnard coming back?"

"No."

EDWARD IS NOT COMING BACK AND THE TALE TO BE TOLD IS A DIFFICULT ONE

Again, there's silence. Why is Bateman so uneasy to talk about Edward? Not only with Isabel but with his father as well? Is he perhaps not as sure of what he has seen as he would like to believe? 

There was a long silence before Bateman spoke again, and with each of them it was filled with many thoughts. It was a difficult story he had to tell, for there were things in it which were so offensive to her sensitive ears that he could not bear to tell them, and yet in justice to her, no less than in justice to himself, he must tell her the whole truth.

THE WRITER MAKES A DIGRESSION, EXPLAING HOW BOTH EDWARD AND BATEMAN FELL IN LOVE WITH ISABELLA SIMULATENOUSLY

As readers, we finally get a full explanation through a digression. It's not a long digression, it's very clear, short and descriptive. 

It had all begun long ago when he and Edward Barnard, still at college, had met Isabel Longstaffe at the tea-party given to introduce her to society. They had both known her when she was a child and they long-legged boys, but for two years she had been in Europe to finish her education and it was with a surprised delight that they renewed acquaintance with the lovely girl who returned.

Bateman accepted the role of a friend, and Edward and Isabel's romantic relationship flourished. 

Both of them fell desperately in love with her, but Bateman saw quickly that she had eyes only for Edward, and, devoted to his friend, he resigned himself to the role of confidant. He passed bitter moments, but he could not deny that Edward was worthy of his good fortune, and, anxious that nothing should impair the friendship he so greatly valued, he took care never by a hint to disclose his own feelings. In six months the young couple were engaged. 

BATEMAN FEELS LIKE THE THIRD WHEEL BUT REMAINS AN HONEST FRIEND

As readers, we're again left assured that Bateman didn't mind being a friend and that the happiness of his friends mattered more to him than his own. But who can really see into the hearts of others? 

Bateman remembered the winter at the end of which Isabel and Edward were to be married, a winter of dances and theatre-parties and of informal gaieties at which he, the constant third, was always present. He loved her no less because she would shortly be his friend's wife; her smile, a gay word she flung him, the confidence of her affection, never ceased to delight him; and he congratulated himself, somewhat complacently, because he did not envy them their happiness. 

EDWARD'S FATHER COMMITS SUICIDE 

First trouble in paradise appears for the young engaged couple, as Edward's father commits suicide. This is another indication of how important martial success is to these people. It's never openly discussed, but it is clear. Bateman sees Chicago as a place of opportunity and progress. For this society, progress is business and money. Aristocracy means money. Prestige families are families with successful businesses.  Without a successful business, what worth could a man possibly have? It is so obvious that it needn't be openly discussed. Nobody questions the father's suicide, nor is it elaborated on. It is normal that he had killed himself. 

Then an accident happened. A great bank failed, there was a panic on the exchange, and Edward Barnard's father found himself a ruined man. He came home one night told his wife that he was penniless, and after dinner, going into his study, shot himself.

EDWARD IS LEFT PENILESS AND PLEADS ISABELLA TO RELEASE HIM FROM THE ENGAGEMENT

There was much talk so far in this story about Isabel being an honorable woman. It seems that Edward is his match. What is honour in this society? It seems money has got a lot to do with it. So, when Edward ends up penniless, he naturally asks Isabel to release him from engagement. He cannot marry her without money. 

A week later, Edward Barnard, with a tired, white face, went to Isabel and asked her to release him. Her only answer was to throw her arms round his neck and burst into tears.

"Don't make it harder for me, sweet," he said.

"Do you think I can let you go now? I love you."

"How can I ask you to marry me? The whole thing's hopeless. Your father would never let you. I haven't a cent."

"What do I care? I love you."

Isabel seems not to care about all this and wants to marry him regardless. We don't know how deep these feelings really are, because Edward immediately tells her of his plans to make money again. While telling her this, it seems that Edward doesn't expect Isabel to wait for him, but her smiles imply that she is prepared to do so. However, I must wonder what would have had happened if Edward didn't have a plan? If he said- I don't plan to do anything extreme to make that money, I just want to live a simple life. Would Isabel had leaped to an opportunity to be with a man with no ambitious? Somehow I doubt she would, but still she seems a very fateful future wife in this instant. To be honest, in her way she was very faithful. If anything, Isabel proved herself calm and loyal. 

He told her his plans. He had to earn money at once, and George Braunschmidt, an old friend of his family, had offered to take him into his own business. He was a South Sea merchant, and he had agencies in many of the islands of the Pacific. He had suggested that Edward should go to Tahiti for a year or two, where under the best of his managers he could learn the details of that varied trade, and at the end of that time he promised the young man a position in Chicago. It was a wonderful opportunity, and when he had finished his explanations Isabel was once more all smiles.

ISABEL IS PREPARED TO WAIT FOR EDWARD

Isabel believes in Edward's success and she's prepared to wait for him. Does it means that her love is true and unconditional? What is true love after all? What happens if he is not successful? 

"You foolish boy, why have you been trying to make me miserable?"

His face lit up at her words and his eyes flashed.

"Isabel, you don't mean to say you'll wait for me?"

"Don't you think you're worth it?" she smiled.

"Ah, don't laugh at me now. I beseech you to be serious. It may be for two years."

"Have no fear. I love you, Edward. When you come back I will marry you."

ISABEL'S FATHER MENTIONS A FAMILY MEMBER WHO IS IN TAHITI- AND SEEMS EMBARESSED ABOUT IT 

Isabel's father talks about a family member (his brother in law) who committed fraud and now lives in Tahiti. He's embarrassed of the whole thing and doesn't want Edward to meet this man. Now, having read the whole story, I wonder why he was embarrassed. Because he doesn't want the Longstaffe's family to be associated with this criminal? I was left unsure whether he's embarrassed because the man wronged others or just because he got caught? Because he did something against the law or because he didn't succeeded in the usual way? Were the feelings of Longsraffe's motivated by personal interest or compassion towards other? 

Mr. Longstaffe had accepted good-naturedly the arrangement which his daughter had told him of and Edward could not imagine what mysterious communication he had now to make. He was not a little perplexed to see that his host was embarrassed. He faltered. He talked of trivial things. At last he blurted it out.

"I guess you've heard of Arnold Jackson," he said, looking at Edward with a frown.

Edward hesitated. His natural truthfulness obliged him to admit a knowledge he would gladly have been able to deny.

"Yes, I have. But it's a long time ago. I guess I didn't pay very much attention."

"There are not many people in Chicago who haven't heard of Arnold Jackson," said Mr. Longstaffe bitterly, "and if there are they'll have no difficulty in finding someone who'll be glad to tell them. Did you know he was Mrs. Longstaffe's brother?"

"Yes, I knew that."

"Of course we've had no communication with him for many years. He left the country as soon as he was able to, and I guess the country wasn't sorry to see the last of him. We understand he lives in Tahiti. My advice to you is to give him a wide berth, but if you do hear anything about him Mrs. Longstaffe and I would be very glad if you'd let us know."

ISABEL'S FAMILY SUPPORTS THE JACKSON'S BUT NOT OUT OF COMPASSION

Longstaffes have done everything to erase this stain on their family name, choosing to never talk of Arnold Jackson. They continued to support Jackson's family- as long as they live in Europe. Having read the story, I started to wonder whether they truly did it from the kindness of their hearts? 

... And it was this which the Longstaffes had adopted towards Arnold Jackson. They never talked of him. They would not even pass through the street in which he had lived. Too kind to make his wife and children suffer for his misdeeds, they had supported them for years, but on the understanding that they should live in Europe. They did everything they could to blot out all recollection of Arnold Jackson and yet were conscious that the story was as fresh in the public mind as when first the scandal burst upon a gaping world. Arnold Jackson was as black a sheep as any family could suffer from. A wealthy banker, prominent in his church, a philanthropist, a man respected by all, not only for his connections (in his veins ran the blue blood of Chicago), but also for his upright character, he was arrested one day on a charge of fraud; and the dishonesty which the trial brought to light was not of the sort which could be explained by a sudden temptation; it was deliberate and systematic. Arnold Jackson was a rogue. When he was sent to the penitentiary for seven years there were few who did not think he had escaped lightly.

THE LOVERS BID EACH OTHER GOODBYE AND TWO YEARS PASS

They part, but are sure of their love towards one another. As the letters arrive, Isabel is happy to see Edward is determined to introduce American ways to the new lands. Now, this is an interesting bit. As I said, there are more than one ways to read one story. Isabel doesn't even question whether bringing the American way to Tahiti is the just thing to do. It never occurs to her that it could be a cultural crime to impose one's way to another way. In her heart, there's no place for sure thoughts. However, what about Edward? Is profit still the most important thing? Are these two lovers really on the same page? Are they still equally ambitious? 

....But presently he seemed to settle down and it made Isabel very happy to observe his growing enthusiasm to introduce American methods into that forgotten corner of the world. But she knew him, and at the end of the year, which was the shortest time he could possibly stay in Tahiti, she expected to have to use all her influence to dissuade him from coming home. It was much better that he should learn the business thoroughly, and if they had been able to wait a year there seemed no reason why they should not wait another. She talked it over with Bateman Hunter, always the most generous of friends (during those first few days after Edward went she did not know what she would have done without him), and they decided that Edward's future must stand before everything. It was with relief that she found as the time passed that he made no suggestion of returning.

"He's splendid, isn't he?" she exclaimed to Bateman.

BUT WHEN THERE IS NO MENTION OF EDWARD RETURNING ISABEL BECOMES RESTLESS

Isabel starts to notice a change in Edward's letters and ponders it. In this moment, I felt for her. After all, she's put a lot of trust in him. She could have married others easily, yet she choose to wait for him. It doesn't seem honest from him, does it? 

But the second year passed and every month Isabel continued to receive a letter from Edward, and presently it began to seem a little strange that he did not speak of coming back. He wrote as though he were settled definitely in Tahiti, and what was more, comfortably settled. She was surprised. Then she read his letters again, all of them, several times; and now, reading between the lines indeed, she was puzzled to notice a change which had escaped her. The later letters were as tender and as delightful as the first, but the tone was different. She was vaguely suspicious of their humour, she had the instinctive mistrust of her sex for that unaccountable quality, and she discerned in them now a flippancy which perplexed her. She was not quite certain that the Edward who wrote to her now was the same Edward that she had known. 

....

Bateman and Isabel are getting to know one another better and are growing more intimate as a result of their desire to understand what is going on with Edward. This is a part that I found easy to believe, as it seemed only natural. In their own way, they are very loyal to Edward. 

A few days later, meeting him again, she noticed that something troubled him. They had been much together since Edward left Chicago; they were both devoted to him and each in his desire to talk of the absent one found a willing listener; the consequence was that Isabel knew every expression of Bateman's face, and his denials now were useless against her keen instinct. Something told her that his harassed look had to do with Edward and she did not rest till she had made him confess.

BATEMAN BREAKS ISABEL THE NEWS THAT EDWARD HAD BEEN FIRED FOR LAZZINESS

Edward had been fired and Isabel finds this hard to believe, yet she asked Bateman whether he noticed the chance in Edward's letters and he confirms it.

....Bateman hesitated, but he had gone so far now that he was obliged to tell the rest. It made him feel dreadfully embarrassed.

"He was fired."

"In heaven's name what for?"

"It appears they warned him once or twice, and at last they told him to get out. They say he was lazy and incompetent."

.....

She did not say anything for a while, and when she spoke it was hesitatingly.

"Has it struck you that there was anything queer in his letters lately?" she asked, looking away, her eyes all bright with tears.

He did not quite know how to answer.

"I have noticed a change in them," he admitted. "He seems to have lost that high seriousness which I admired so much in him. One would almost think that the things that matter--well, don't matter."

Isabel did not reply. She was vaguely uneasy.

"Perhaps in his answer to your letter he'll say when he's coming home. All we can do is to wait for that."

CONFUSED BATEMAN AND ISABELL WAIT FOR ANOTHER LETTER BUT AGAIN EDWARD DOESN'T MENTION COMING HOME

....

"He says nothing about coming back."

"If I weren't so confident of his love I should think... I hardly know what I should think."

It was then that Bateman had broached the scheme which during the afternoon had formed itself in his brain. The firm, founded by his father, in which he was now a partner, a firm which manufactured all manner of motor vehicles, was about to establish agencies in Honolulu, Sydney, and Wellington; and Bateman proposed that himself should go instead of the manager, who had been suggested. He could return by Tahiti; in fact, travelling from Wellington, it was inevitable to do so; and he could see Edward.

BATEMAN CANNOT TAKE IT ANYMORE, HE DECIDES TO SEE EDWARD AND ISABEL IS VERY GRATEFUL

"There's some mystery and I'm going to clear it up. That's the only way to do it."

"Oh, Bateman, how can you be so good and kind?" she exclaimed.

"You know there's nothing in the world I want more than your happiness, Isabel."

She looked at him and she gave him her hands.

"You're wonderful, Bateman. I didn't know there was anyone in the world like you. How can I ever thank you?"

"I don't want your thanks. I only want to be allowed to help you."

She dropped her eyes and flushed a little. She was so used to him that she had forgotten how handsome he was. He was as tall as Edward and as well made, but he was dark and pale of face, while Edward was ruddy. Of course she knew he loved her. It touched her. She felt very tenderly towards him.

BATEMAN THOUGHT A GREAT DEAL ABOUT  HIS FRIENDS DURING THE VOYAGE

The business part of it took him somewhat longer than he expected and he had much time to think of his two friends. He had come to the conclusion that it could be nothing serious that prevented Edward from coming home, a pride, perhaps, which made him determined to make good before he claimed the bride he adored; but it was a pride that must be reasoned with. Isabel was unhappy. Edward must come back to Chicago with him and marry her at once. A position could be found for him in the works of the Hunter Motor Traction and Automobile Company. 

Bateman, with a bleeding heart, exulted at the prospect of giving happiness to the two persons he loved best in the world at the cost of his own. He would never marry. He would be godfather to the children of Edward and Isabel, and many years later when they were both dead he would tell Isabel's daughter how long, long ago he had loved her mother. Bateman's eyes were veiled with tears when he pictured this scene to himself.

AS SOON AS BATEMAN ARRIVES, HE LEARNS THAT EDWARD IS KNOWN AS THE NEPHEW OF ISABEL'S CRIMINAL UNCLE

"He's an American. A tall fellow with light brown hair and blue eyes. He's been here over two years."

"Of course. Now I know who you mean. You mean Mr. Jackson's nephew."

"Whose nephew?"

"Mr. Arnold Jackson."

"I don't think we're speaking of the same person," answered Bateman, frigidly.

BATEMAN IS SHOCKED TO FIND EDWARD WORKING AS A SALESMAN

We come to a rather significant part of the short story. I like how the author, while using the third person point of view, still told the story from the perspective of Bateman and Isabel. It makes it easier to understand why Bateman was so shocked to find Edward selling cotton. 

 It gave him a start to see him engaged in so humble an occupation. But he had scarcely appeared when Edward, looking up, caught sight of him, and gave a joyful cry of surprise.

"Bateman! Who ever thought of seeing you here?"

He stretched his arm across the counter and wrung Bateman's hand. There was no self-consciousness in his manner and the embarrassment was all on Bateman's side.

"Just wait till I've wrapped this package."

With perfect assurance he ran his scissors across the stuff, folded it, made it into a parcel, and handed it to the dark-skinned customer.

Now, the writer refers to the Edward's customer as dark-skinned. This implies not just skin colour as such, but race. It is clear Edward is perfectly as ease serving this customer. However, Bateman is not. When he confronts Edward about it later, he uses the "N" word. While it could be argued that this world was used widely in the historical period this book was published in, it seems clear that the author disapproves of it, or at least disapproves of it in the context. So, Maugham gives us another view of Bateman. Firstly, he paints Bateman as an angelic man who puts the happiness of others before his own. Now, Bateman is upset with his friend. Maybe it has more to do with Edward's position and lack of ambitious, but Bateman isn't comfortable seeing Edward so content to serve a customer of another race. It seems that Bateman is filled with prejudice. I suppose we all unconsciously adapt views of our society, but is Bateman really that close of friends of Edward? If Bateman is he true friend why doesn't he even try to understand him? 

IS MAUGHAM CRITICAL OF ISABEL AND BATEMAN?

I would say that in some ways he is. Isabel and Bateman can be said to represent the West, whereas Edward now represents the East. Maugham uses irony to make fun of Barnard's racial prejudice, and for 1920s, that was bold. 

BATEMAN CANNOT COMPREHEND WHY EDWARD SEEMS HAPPY

Bateman is shocked and cannot comprehend how Edward can be poor and cheerful. Being poor is a disgrace in their society, it's a fatal flaw. Edward's father killed himself when he lost his money. Edward initially wanted to make money again, but it seems that his mind changed somewhere along the way. What is Edward doing now is perhaps just enjoying life. Bateman is puzzled by Edward's happiness.

"I guess you won't make a fortune where you are," he answered, somewhat dryly.

"I guess not. But I earn enough to keep body and soul together, and I'm quite satisfied with that."

"You wouldn't have been two years ago."

"We grow wiser as we grow older," retorted Edward, gaily.

Bateman took a glance at him. Edward was dressed in a suit of shabby white ducks, none too clean, and a large straw hat of native make. He was thinner than he had been, deeply burned by the sun, and he was certainly better-looking than ever. But there was something in his appearance that disconcerted Bateman. He walked with a new jauntiness; there was a carelessness in his demeanour, a gaiety about nothing in particular, which Bateman could not precisely blame, but which exceedingly puzzled him.

BATEMAN IS HORRIFIED  WHEN EDWARD INTRODUCES HIM TO EX CRIMINAL JACKSON

Not only does Edward introduces Bateman to Arnold Jackson's, the only man on the island Bateman wanted to avoid, the two insist Bateman comes over on dinner, even when he refuses. 

"We don't take refusals in Tahiti," laughed Edward. "Besides, you'll get the best dinner on the island."

"What did he mean by saying his wife was a good cook? I happen to know his wife's in Geneva."

"That's a long way off for a wife, isn't it?" said Edward. "And it's a long time since he saw her. I guess it's another wife he's talking about."

For some time Bateman was silent. His face was set in grave lines. But looking up he caught the amused look in Edward's eyes, and he flushed darkly.

The conversation continues and Edward confesses that he likes Arnold Jackson very much, even if he fears that he is a despicable rogue, even going as far as to say: " I never met a more agreeable companion. He's taught me everything I know."

I like how the author doesn't seem to condemn anyone. Jackson may or not be an agreeable companion, I guess it depends on whom is asking. Jackson has a native wife, something that grately shocks Bateman, but Edward is unphased by it. Edward seems to have forgotten what racial prejudice is. However, at the same time, the reader wonders. Jackson is a criminial after all. Does he have no shame? The way he speaks to Bateman, wanting to hear all about his sister and her family (that don't communicate with him at all), seems to imply he has no regret. Moreover, what could Edward mean when he says that Jackson is a rogue, but one that has taught him everything he knows. Can a rogue be a good teacher? Isn't Bateman right to worry about Edward? Was Isabel's father right to warn Edward of Isabel's uncle fatal influence? 

 On one side, the reader (especially the present day reader) wants to congratulate Edward and Jackson on their lack of racial prejudice, but on other hand, are these two man really honorable? Jackson doesn't ask about his real family, wife and kids forced to live in Europe because of his crimes, and he doesn't seem to think of them at all. Similarly, Edward doesn't seem to think much of Isabela anymore. It's very well to choose to adapt yourself to the culture of a certain place, but does it free one from previously assumed responsibilities? 

BATEMAN AGREES TO COME OVER FOR DINNER BUT THE TWO FRIENDS NOW SEEM MILES APART

Upon Edward's request, Bateman decides to dine with Jacksons, but he does so trying to find a way to reach Edward. However, the friends are now miles apart. Edward simply isn't interested in the same things anymore. 

"Come to oblige me, Bateman. We've been friends for so many years, you won't refuse me a favour when I ask it."

Edward's tone had in it a quality new to Bateman. Its gentleness was singularly persuasive.

"If you put it like that, Edward, I'm bound to come," he smiled.

Bateman reflected, moreover, that it would be as well to learn what he could about Arnold Jackson. It was plain that he had a great ascendency over Edward, and if it was to be combated it was necessary to discover in what exactly it consisted. The more he talked with Edward the more conscious he became that a change had taken place in him. He had an instinct that it behooved him to walk warily, and he made up his mind not to broach the real purport of his visit till he saw his way more clearly. 

BATEMAN IS INTRODUCES TO LAVINE, THE NATIVE WIFE OF ARNOLD AND AGAIN HE SHOWS RACIAL PREJUDICE

Even after Edward introduces them, Bateman seems unsure of who Lavine is, and after Edward informs her the two of them are going for a swim, Bateman asks him who the woman is. His reaction when Edward tells him it's Lavine, Arnold's wife, is not pleasant- Bateman tightened his lips, but said nothing. 

JACKSON PROPOSES THAT BATEMAN WEARS A PAREO AND BATEMAN REFUSES

While they have a swim before dinner, Bateman is again surprised to see Edward happy.  Edward was in great spirits. He laughed and shouted and sang. He might have been fifteen. Bateman had never seen him so gay, and afterwards when they lay on the beach, smoking cigarettes, in the limpid air, there was such an irresistible light-heartedness in him that Bateman was taken aback.

During the whole dinner Bateman is not at ease, he refuses to wear a pareo, and prefers to put his clothes back on after the swim. In this way Bateman also shows that he is ready for cultural appreciation. Jackson and Edward are at ease in a pareo, and Jackson advocates its benefits. 

"It's a comfort to get into a pareo when one gets back from town," said Jackson. "If you were going to stay here I should strongly recommend you to adopt it. It's one of the most sensible costumes I have ever come across. It's cool, convenient, and inexpensive."

EVEN BATEMAN HAS TO ADMIRE THE BEAUTY OF TAHITI'S NATURE

What follows is a rather inspired depiction of Murea's island beauty, and even Bateman is impressed.

"Look at that," he said, with a dramatic gesture. "Look well."

Below them coconut trees tumbled down steeply to the lagoon, and the lagoon in the evening light had the colour, tender and varied, of a dove's breast. On a creek, at a little distance, were the clustered huts of a native village, and towards the reef was a canoe, sharply silhouetted, in which were a couple of natives fishing. Then, beyond, you saw the vast calmness of the Pacific and twenty miles away, airy and unsubstantial like the fabric of a poet's fancy, the unimaginable beauty of the island which is called Murea. It was all so lovely that Bateman stood abashed.

"I've never seen anything like it," he said at last.

Does it mean that Bateman is starting to realize that these two men might have found something special? For an instant, Bateman seems to acknowledge Jackson's spirituality but then he reminds himself that the man is a criminal. 

Arnold Jackson stood staring in front of him, and in his eyes was a dreamy softness. His thin, thoughtful face was very grave. Bateman, glancing at it, was once more conscious of its intense spirituality.

"Beauty," murmured Arnold Jackson. "You seldom see beauty face to face. Look at it well, Mr. Hunter, for what you see now you will never see again, since the moment is transitory, but it will be an imperishable memory in your heart. You touch eternity."

His voice was deep and resonant. He seemed to breathe forth the purest idealism, and Bateman had to urge himself to remember that the man who spoke was a criminal and a cruel cheat. But Edward, as though he heard a sound, turned round quickly.

ISABEL'S FIRST COUSIN  EVA APPEARS AND MAKES GREAT COCKTAILS

Isabel's cousin and Jackson's natural daughter appears and is introduced to Bateman. 

"Here is my daughter, Mr. Hunter."

Bateman shook hands with her. She had dark, splendid eyes and a red mouth tremulous with laughter; but her skin was brown, and her curling hair, rippling down her shoulders, was coal-black. She wore but one garment, a Mother Hubbard of pink cotton, her feet were bare, and she was crowned with a wreath of white scented flowers. She was a lovely creature. She was like a goddess of the Polynesian spring.

She was a little shy, but not more shy than Bateman, to whom the whole situation was highly embarrassing, and it did not put him at his ease to see this sylph-like thing take a shaker and with a practised hand mix three cocktails.

BATEMAN IS DEEPLY EMBARRASENT WHEN HE IS MADE TO WEAR A FLORAL WREATH

Eva has made a wreath for Bateman, and when he puts it on, he is deeply embrassed for some reason. What's the reason? I guess Bateman just cannot bring himself to be a bit more culturally opened. There was a second when he seemed to connect with his hosts, but the moment passed, and he's back to his stubborn proud self. 

"It's a wreath that Eva made for you," said Jackson, "but I guess she was too shy to give it you."

Bateman took it up in his hand and made a polite little speech of thanks to the girl.

"You must put it on," she said, with a smile and a blush.

"I? I don't think I'll do that."

"It's the charming custom of the country," said Arnold Jackson.

There was one in front of him and he placed it on his hair. Edward did the same.

"I guess I'm not dressed for the part," said Bateman, uneasily.

"Would you like a pareo?" said Eva quickly. "I'll get you one in a minute."

"No, thank you. I'm quite comfortable as I am."

"Show him how to put it on, Eva," said Edward.

At that moment Bateman hated his greatest friend. Eva got up from the table and with much laughter placed the wreath on his black hair.

ONCE CLOSE AND NOW DISTANT FRIENDS ENGAGE IN A LONG HONEST CONVERSATION

The moment comes for the two friends to have an honest conversation. Bateman does all he can to convince his friend to return to Chicago, but Edward says he's honestly happy on the island. As I was reading, I must admit that I wondered. What is the truth? Is there a finite truth? Or is perhaps truth something that changes? Was Edward really happier on the island? Will he remain happier? Did Bateman really care? Did he understand Edward? Is it pride or emotion that spoke from these two friends? Who can really look into a man's heart and tell for sure? 

For a few minutes neither of them spoke. Bateman wondered how he should begin on the conversation which all the events of the day made him think more urgent.

"When are you coming back to Chicago?" he asked, suddenly.

For a moment Edward did not answer. Then he turned rather lazily to look at his friend and smiled.

"I don't know. Perhaps never."

"What in heaven's name do you mean?" cried Bateman.

"I'm very happy here. Wouldn't it be folly to make a change?"

"Man alive, you can't live here all your life. This is no life for a man. It's a living death. Oh, Edward, come away at once, before it's too late. I've felt that something was wrong. You're infatuated with the place, you've succumbed to evil influences, but it only requires a wrench, and when you're free from these surroundings you'll thank all the gods there be. You'll be like a dope-fiend when he's broken from his drug. You'll see then that for two years you've been breathing poisoned air. You can't imagine what a relief it will be when you fill your lungs once more with the fresh, pure air of your native country."

He spoke quickly, the words tumbling over one another in his excitement, and there was in his voice sincere and affectionate emotion. Edward was touched.

"It is good of you to care so much, old friend."

Edward is touched by Bateman's words because he feels the honest emotion in them, but he has no intention of returning. 

BATEMAN CANNOT UNDERSTAND HOW IT IS POSSIBLE THAT EDWARD CHANGED SO MUCH BUT HE'S WILLING TO LISTEN AND EDWARD IS WILLING TO TALK

There seems to be an honest moment between the friends. It seems their friendship is not a superficial as it might seem. Edward was silent for a minute, and then he opened his heart to Bateman, saying how coming here, he realized what true freedom was, freedom to think for oneself, to read books, to really think about them. Edward had a brilliant business idea, but he abandoned it, because he didn't want to change this island, he wanted to keep it as it was. 

"When I saw you this morning, Bateman," he said then, "I seemed to see myself as I was two years ago. The same collar, and the same shoes, the same blue suit, the same energy. The same determination. By God, I was energetic. The sleepy methods of this place made my blood tingle. I went about and everywhere I saw possibilities for development and enterprise. There were fortunes to be made here. It seemed to me absurd that the copra should be taken away from here in sacks and the oil extracted in America. It would be far more economical to do all that on the spot, with cheap labour, and save freight, and I saw already the vast factories springing up on the island. Then the way they extracted it from the coconut seemed to me hopelessly inadequate, and I invented a machine which divided the nut and scooped out the meat at the rate of two hundred and forty an hour. The harbour was not large enough. I made plans to enlarge it, then to form a syndicate to buy land, put up two or three large hotels, and bungalows for occasional residents; I had a scheme for improving the steamer service in order to attract visitors from California. In twenty years, instead of this half-French, lazy little town of Papeete I saw a great American city with ten-storey buildings and street-cars, a theatre and an opera house, a stock exchange and a mayor."

EDWARD TELLS BATEMAN THAT ON THE ISLAND HE BEGAN TO THINK AND READ

The simple life on the island inspired Edward to think and read for pleasure and not for work. 

"It came upon me little by little. I came to like the life here, with its ease and its leisure, and the people, with their good-nature and their happy smiling faces. I began to think. I'd never had time to do that before. I began to read."

"You always read."

"I read for examinations. I read in order to be able to hold my own in conversation. I read for instruction. Here I learned to read for pleasure. I learned to talk. Do you know that conversation is one of the greatest pleasures in life? But it wants leisure. I'd always been too busy before. And gradually all the life that had seemed so important to me began to seem rather trivial and vulgar. What is the use of all this hustle and this constant striving? I think of Chicago now and I see a dark, grey city, all stone--it is like a prison--and a ceaseless turmoil. And what does all that activity amount to? Does one get there the best out of life? Is that what we come into the world for, to hurry to an office, and work hour after hour till night, then hurry home and dine and go to a theatre? Is that how I must spend my youth? Youth lasts so short a time, Bateman. And when I am old, what have I to look forward to? To hurry from my home in the morning to my office and work hour after hour till night, and then hurry home again, and dine and go to a theatre? That may be worth while if you make a fortune; I don't know, it depends on your nature; but if you don't, is it worth while then? I want to make more out of my life than that, Bateman."

"What do you value in life then?"

"I'm afraid you'll laugh at me. Beauty, truth, and goodness."

"Don't you think you can have those in Chicago?"

"Some men can, perhaps, but not I." Edward sprang up now. "I tell you when I think of the life I led in the old days I am filled with horror," he cried violently. "I tremble with fear when I think of the danger I have escaped. I never knew I had a soul till I found it here. If I had remained a rich man I might have lost it for good and all."

BATEMAN ASKS THE CRUCUAL QUESTION- WHAT ABOUT ISABEL?

Edwards says that Isabel is too good for him. I wonder if he really means that.  A moment ago, Edward's said how the thought of life in Chicago fills him with horror, but now he says he admires Isabel's ambition. It is possible Edward is sincere, he merely adapted Jackson's way of accepting everyone, starting with himself. Maybe the key is what Edward says- that the Chicago's ambitious life is for someone else. Edward has found his soul on the island, and is quite sure he'll lose it if he returns to Chicago. However, Isabel and Bateman belong in Chicago. So, he urges Bateman to tell that to Isabel, and advises Bateman to confess his feelings and marry Isabel. We as readers knows that Isabel is already aware of Bateman's love, and she is glad of it.

"Isabel is infinitely too good for me. I admire her more than any woman I have ever known. She has a wonderful brain and she's as good as she's beautiful. I respect her energy and her ambition. She was born to make a success of life. I am entirely unworthy of her."

"She doesn't think so."

"But you must tell her so, Bateman."

"I?" cried Bateman. "I'm the last person who could ever do that."

Edward had his back to the vivid light of the moon and his face could not be seen. Is it possible that he smiled again?

"It's no good your trying to conceal anything from her, Bateman. With her quick intelligence she'll turn you inside out in five minutes. You'd better make a clean breast of it right away."

BATEMAN IS AFRAID EDWARD IS DOING IT BECAUSE OF HIM AND HE ASSURES HIM IT ISN'T SO

When Edward suggests to Bateman that he should marry Isabel, he is worried Edward is doing it because he's aware that Bateman is in love with Isabel, but Edward assures him he intends to be happy. 

"Edward, it's not for my sake you're doing this? I don't know, but perhaps this is going to make a tremendous difference to my future. You're not sacrificing yourself for me? I couldn't stand for that, you know."

"No, Bateman, I have learnt not to be silly and sentimental here. I should like you and Isabel to be happy, but I have not the least wish to be unhappy myself."

EDWARD REVEALS HE PLANS TO MARRY EVA- THE COUSIN OF ISABELLA

Upon hearing the Edward's plan to marry Eva, Bateman shows his racial prejudice again. 

"You?" Bateman was thunderstuck. "You can't marry a half-caste. You wouldn't be so crazy as that."

"She's a good girl, and she has a sweet and gentle nature. I think she would make me very happy."

"Are you in love with her?"

"I don't know," answered Edward reflectively. "I'm not in love with her as I was in love with Isabel. I worshipped Isabel. I thought she was the most wonderful creature I had ever seen. I was not half good enough for her. I don't feel like that with Eva. She's like a beautiful exotic flower that must be sheltered from bitter winds. I want to protect her. No one ever thought of protecting Isabel. I think she loves me for myself and not for what I may become. Whatever happens to me I shall never disappoint her. She suits me."

Bateman was silent after hearing that. I wonder if he meditated on it. Edward certainly seemed to. Indeed, Isabel loves Edward for what he might become, not for he is. The reader cannot find a fault in Isabel's love, yet it's not the kind of love Edward needs. Isabel is prepared to wait as long as necessary, but she needs Edward to be ambitious- and for Edward that means losing his soul. The more I think of it, I think Isabel'd be prepared to love Edward even if he lost all of his money- prepared that he was ready to work hard for it again. I suppose that for Isabel that's what a man should be- someone whose purpose of life was work. She was ready to be at his side, to use her intelligence and strength- but she couldn't be with someone who didn't have that kind of ambition. Had Edward ever truly have it? Was there ever a chance for them to be happy? 

I like how the writer creates this ambiguity. One isn't entirely certain of what the characters believe or what is really true. Nevertheless, I get this impression, that no matter what truth might be, we shouldn't judge them. Maybe they are just different people. Maybe we're all just different people. We want different things- and that's alright. Nobody is perfect. We should just accept one another as we are. 

BATEMAN IS DEEPLY DISAPPOINTED IN EDWARD BUT EDWARDS ASSURES HIM THAT HE IS HAPPY

I liked how these two friends have finally started speaking openly, but then Bateman feels this disappointment that really seems out of place. Why cannot he just be happy for his friend? Perhaps because Bateman, like Isabel, simply cannot comprehend a life that doesn't revolve around building a business. Bateman and Edward belong to two different cultures now, and their friendship isn't enough to cross that gap in understanding. They don't speak the same language anymore.

Then Bateman spoke and his voice had in it a genuine distress.

"I'm so bewildered, I don't know what to say. I came here because I thought something was wrong. I thought you hadn't succeeded in what you set out to do and were ashamed to come back when you'd failed. I never guessed I should be faced with this. I'm so desperately sorry, Edward. I'm so disappointed. I hoped you would do great things. It's almost more than I can bear to think of you wasting your talents and your youth and your chance in this lamentable way."

"Don't be grieved, old friend," said Edward. "I haven't failed. I've succeeded. You can't think with what zest I look forward to life, how full it seems to me and how significant. Sometimes, when you are married to Isabel, you will think of me. I shall build myself a house on my coral island and I shall live there, looking after my trees--getting the fruit out of the nuts in the same old way that they have done for unnumbered years--I shall grow all sorts of things in my garden, and I shall fish. There will be enough work to keep me busy and not enough to make me dull. I shall have my books and Eva, children, I hope, and above all, the infinite variety of the sea and the sky, the freshness of the dawn and the beauty of the sunset, and the rich magnificence of the night. I shall make a garden out of what so short a while ago was a wilderness. I shall have created something. The years will pass insensibly, and when I am an old man I hope that I shall be able to look back on a happy, simple, peaceful life. In my small way I too shall have lived in beauty. Do you think it is so little to have enjoyed contentment? We know that it will profit a man little if he gain the whole world and lose his soul. I think I have won mine."

BATEMAN DOESN'T BELIEVE HIM, YET IT IS EDWARD WHO SLEEPS LIKE A BABY

Bateman doesn't believe that Edward is happy...yet  " In ten minutes Bateman knew by his regular breathing, peaceful as a child's, that Edward was asleep. But for his part he had no rest, he was disturbed in mind, and it was not till the dawn crept into the room, ghostlike and silent, that he fell asleep."

BATEMAN FINISHES TELLING THE STORY TO ISABELLA AND SHE ASKS ABOUT HER COUSIN EVA IMMEDIATELY

The first thing Isabel asks about is the girl Eva. Isabel is described as an intelligent woman, but here we have another proof. Isabel deduces everything by herself, and seems to always be one step in front of Bateman. 

Bateman finished telling Isabel his long story. He had hidden nothing from her except what he thought would wound her or what made himself ridiculous. He did not tell her that he had been forced to sit at dinner with a wreath of flowers round his head and he did not tell her that Edward was prepared to marry her uncle's half-caste daughter the moment she set him free. But perhaps Isabel had keener intuitions than he knew, for as he went on with his tale her eyes grew colder and her lips closed upon one another more tightly. Now and then she looked at him closely, and if he had been less intent on his narrative he might have wondered at her expression.

"What was this girl like?" she asked when he finished. "Uncle Arnold's daughter. Would you say there was any resemblance between her and me?"

Bateman was surprised at the question.

"It never struck me. You know I've never had eyes for anyone but you and I could never think that anyone was like you. Who could resemble you?"

"Was she pretty?" said Isabel, smiling slightly at his words.

"I suppose so. I daresay some men would say she was very beautiful."

ISABEL SMILES TO BATEMAN AND REACHES UP TO HIM

That Isabel would marry Bateman was clear almost from the start. That was never what the plot of the story was about. The ease with which Isabel renounces Edward makes us wonder whether she ever loved him. However, what is love? There are different kinds of love and different kinds of people.

"Well, it's of no consequence. I don't think we need give her any more of our attention."

"What are you going to do, Isabel?" he asked then.

Isabel looked down at the hand which still bore the ring Edward had given her on their betrothal.

"I wouldn't let Edward break our engagement because I thought it would be an incentive to him. I wanted to be an inspiration to him. I thought if anything could enable him to achieve success it was the thought that I loved him. I have done all I could. It's hopeless. It would only be weakness on my party not to recognise the facts. Poor Edward, he's nobody's enemy but his own. He was a dear, nice fellow, but there was something lacking in him, I suppose it was backbone. I hope he'll be happy."

She slipped the ring off her finger and placed it on the table. Bateman watched her with a heart beating so rapidly that he could hardly breathe.

"You're wonderful, Isabel, you're simply wonderful."

She smiled, and, standing up, held out her hand to him.

This story is a meditation on modern life and what really makes a man happy. It's a wonderfully modernist piece of writing. The ending brings no surprises in terms of the plot. The richness of this story is in the exploration and contrasting of its characters. Has Edward failed or has he succeeded? Perhaps we all need to find our own definition of success. 

BATEMAN PROPOSED TO ISABEL AND THEY SEEM GENUINELY HAPPY- IS IT SO?

Did our heroes found their happiness? Who can really tell? What this story has taught me that there are different paths for happiness. Sometimes people change, and love and friendships come to an end. It doesn't mean they weren't true while they lasted.  We try to give other people happiness by giving them what we want. We don't really know what makes other people happy. So, we guess. We guess that they want the same as we do. However, sometimes people wish and need quite different things.

"Isabel, you know I wanted to marry you the very first day I saw you," he cried passionately.

"Then why on earth didn't you ask me?" she replied.

She loved him. He could hardly believe it was true. She gave him her lovely lips to kiss. And as he held her in his arms he had a vision of the works of the Hunter Motor Traction and Automobile Company growing in size and importance till they covered a hundred acres, and of the millions of motors they would turn out, and of the great collection of pictures he would form which should beat anything they had in New York. He would wear horn spectacles. And she, with the delicious pressure of his arms about her, sighed with happiness, for she thought of the exquisite house she would have, full of antique furniture, and of the concerts she would give, and of the thés dansants, and the dinners to which only the most cultured people would come.

"Poor Edward," she sighed.

Thank you for reading!