The townspeople are curious about Mr. Verney and his veil. They spread rumors that he is a murderer, a thief, or a ghost. Mr. Verney does nothing to dispel these rumors, and he continues to wear the veil even when it is not necessary.
One day, a young woman named Susan comes to Mr. Verney's house. She tells him that she is in love with him and that she wants to marry him. Mr. Verney is kind to Susan, but he tells her that he cannot marry her because he is already married.
Susan is heartbroken, and she leaves Mr. Verney's house. She later dies of a broken heart.
The townspeople are shocked by Susan's death. They blame Mr. Verney for her death, and they force him to leave town.
Mr. Verney leaves town, and he is never seen again. The townspeople are left wondering what was behind the black veil.