CHAPTER 10.
From Joan Gildea to Colin McKeith.
Written about a year later.
MY DEAR COLIN, I find it impossible to recognise my old friend in the hard, businesslike communication you sent me from Leichardt's Town.

I almost wish that you had allowed the lawyer you consulted to put the case before me instead; it would have seemed less unfitting, and I could have answered it better.

But I quite appreciate your objection to taking the lawyer into your confidence as regards the personal matters you mention to me.

It would be cruelly unjust--I think quite unpardonable in you to bring forward the name of Mr Willoughby Maule in connection with Bridget.

Not that HE would mind that.