Ellinor spoke of herself as in better health; and Canon Livingstone (between whom and Miss Monro great intimacy had sprung up since Ellinor had gone away, and Miss Monro could ask him to tea) confirmed this report of Miss Wilkins's health from a letter which he had received from Mrs.Forbes.

Curiosity about that letter was Miss Monro's torment.

What could they have had to write to each other about?
It was a very odd proceeding; although the Livingstones and Forbeses were distantly related, after the manner of Scotland.

Could it have been that he had offered to Euphemia, after all, and that her mother had answered; or, possibly, there was a letter from Effie herself, enclosed.

It was a pity for Miss Monro's peace of mind that she did not ask him straight away.