But nothing was broached about it for some time yet.

Sally Hall had, in fact, imparted the first decisive motion to events by refusing to accompany Helena.

She soon gave them a second move by writing the following note '[Private.] 'DEAR CHARLES,--Living here so long and intimately with Helena, I have naturally learnt her history, especially that of it which refers to you.

I am sure she would accept you as a husband at the proper time, and I think you ought to give her the opportunity.

You inquire in an old note if I am sorry that I showed temper (which it wasn't) that night when I heard you talking to her.