In Accordance with the Evidence

"In Accordance with the Evidence" by Oliver Onions is a story that looks back at earlier times, taking place in London around the beginning of the 1900s. It centers on Jeffries, who thinks deeply about what happened to him, remembering his confusing feelings for Evie Soames. Through his memories we learn about Jeffries' goals, the differences in social status, and the hurtful problems that come with love and jealousy. At first we hear about Jeffries' simple beginnings, and he remembers going to a business school with Archie Merridew, who had more advantages in life. Seeing how different their lives are makes Jeffries feel not good enough and bitter, especially since he is falling in love with Evie, who also goes to the school. While Jeffries wrestles with what he feels, the story hints at problems that will result from his unreturned love and his jealousy of Archie, who seems to easily impress everyone, including Evie. This beginning prepares us for a story connecting one person's struggles to bigger issues in society, and it asks us to consider intense human feelings and dreams.