When left to himself he could not dismiss from his thoughts the remark made by his sister.

He knew she was ignorant of his affairs in New Brunswick, yet he felt sorely puzzled.
Not long after the following conversation took place, Maude Bereford was preparing to hasten homeward.

Lady Rosamond sent cheerful accounts of her husband's rapid improvement.

They were still visiting amid the ruins in hopes of speedily returning to England.
Every fortnight brought to Trevelyan Hall a lengthy epistle from Mary Douglas--lengthy from the fact of its being addressed to each member of the family--bearing remembrance to Lady Trevelyan, many choice bits of gossip to Guy, and charming effusions to Fanny, full of love and tenderness.

Her last contained a glowing allusion to Lady Rosamond--an eager desire to meet her loving friend; also fervent gratitude for the hopeful restoration of Gerald's health.
"I am almost inclined to feel a pang of jealousy," exclaimed Fanny, as she read and re-read the contents of the precious missive.