In the literary milieu of the early 20th century, Alroy Kear is a celebrated novelist eager to discuss the late Edward Driffield, an eminent writer of the previous century. Kear arranges a lunch with his fellow author and friend, Ashenden, who anticipates there's more to the invitation than camaraderie. As their meal concludes without incident, Ashenden is left perplexed about Kear's true intentions.

Memories of Driffield

Once back in his room, Ashenden's mind drifts to memories of his childhood encounters with Driffield. Growing up in the coastal town of Blackstable, where he lived with his uncle, the vicar, Ashenden first met Driffield through his uncle’s curate. Initially, the young Ashenden found the writer rather unimpressive. His uncle recounted stories of Driffield's tumultuous youth and his marriage to a local barmaid, which only solidified Ashenden's indifferent impression.

An Invitation from the Past

Days after his lunch with Kear, Ashenden receives a surprising invitation from Driffield’s widow, asking him to visit her in Blackstable. Intrigued, he reaches out to Kear, who promises to clarify the situation in person. Ashenden, recalling his sole previous encounter with Mrs. Driffield during a past literary gathering, is curious about her motives.

Reminiscences of the Driffields

During his earlier visit, Ashenden had noted the peculiar dynamics between the elderly Driffield and his new wife, who had once been his nurse. A series of winks from Driffield during the visit hinted at an unspoken understanding between them. Reflecting further, Ashenden recalls how Driffield and his first wife, Rosie, exposed him to adventures like bicycling, despite their controversial social interactions.

Rosie's Enigmatic Nature

An incident involving Rosie deepens Ashenden’s bewilderment. He once witnessed her leaving his uncle’s cook's company to meet George Kemp, a local coal merchant, and walking together into the fields. This raised questions about Rosie's fidelity, which Ashenden struggled to reconcile with his understanding of her character.

Return to Innocence Lost

Back at school, Ashenden's routine involved frequent visits to the Driffields during holidays. He was surprised that, despite Kemp's constant presence, Rosie and Kemp did not outwardly behave as lovers. Driffield, meanwhile, entertained with songs and was largely silent on literary matters. When Ashenden returned the following summer, he found that the Driffields had abruptly left town, leaving debts in their wake, and he felt guilty for befriending them.

The Biographer's Quest

Kear's visit to Ashenden's rooms reveals his intention to write Driffield’s biography, enlisting Ashenden’s recollections of the author’s early life. Kear is insistent on a narrative that upholds Driffield's legacy without causing discomfort to the widow. With reluctance, Ashenden agrees to contribute, even as he grapples with Kear's sanitized vision of history.

Reunion in London

A chance encounter with Rosie in London, while Ashenden was a medical student, rekindles old associations. She showed no embarrassment at seeing someone from Blackstable, leading to regular visits between Ashenden and the Driffields. With Driffield working nights, Rosie and Ashenden spent time at shows and theaters, which gradually revealed her beauty and charm. One night, when Rosie chose to stay with him, it cemented their relationship in an intimate bond.

A Literary Mentor's Revelation

Mrs. Barton Trafford, a literary patron, later enlightened Ashenden about Rosie's departure with Kemp, her erstwhile lover. The news that Rosie loved Kemp more than him bruised Ashenden's pride, leaving him to reflect on the transient nature of their relationship.

The Drift of Time

As time passed, Ashenden lost contact with Driffield, who had divorced Rosie and convalesced from pneumonia under Mrs. Trafford’s care. Driffield’s remarriage to his nurse, now the current Mrs. Driffield, followed as his reputation burgeoned. Meanwhile, Rosie had migrated...