 How does Pembrook feel about Mary Ann?
The series of events leading up to Pembroke's present occupation had commenced on a dismal, overcast evening in the South Pacific a year earlier. One in particular, an attractive woman of about thirty, tossed back her long, chestnut locks and gazed up intently at Pembroke as he passed. "Just be yourself, gal," Spencer drawled, jabbing her intimately with a fat elbow, "and you'll qualify." "Mister, you've been doing some thinkin', I can see," said Spencer, peering at him suspiciously. Spencer opened his mouth to protest, but saw with amazement that it was exactly this that Valencia was seeking. Pembroke was amused at his companion's reaction but observed that Spencer still failed to see the point.
 Mary Ann is a means to an end for Pembrook.
 Pembrook is in love with Mary Ann.  Pembrook feels betrayed by Mary Ann because she was plotting to kill him.  At, first Mary Ann was a means to an end, but now Pembrook is in love with her.  Mary Ann is a means to an end for Pembrook.