Blackwood, January 18—

Dear Selina,

You will be pleased to hear that Dr Theodore has proclaimed Richard to be in the best of health, and ready to travel any day now. However, though Richard and I spoke of his return a few days ago, I have been unwilling to broach the subject with him. He and Isobel are daily in each other’s company and I have little desire to separate them. Even more so since he admitted his feelings for her. You, of all people, will understand, I am sure.

I have said nothing of Isobel to him, and nothing of him to Isobel. I’m even wary of broaching the subject further with Henry. He says he sees Richard differently from Bradby, but that does not mean he would be happy with an engagement between the two. And until he says so (if that is the case) Richard will never ask her to marry him. So, we are stuck in this continuing loop of unspoken confessions.

I received a letter from Frances Danbury yesterday. She wrote little of their business there. But I spoke with Mr Danbury yesterday and he seemed to think things were well. I am doubtful of whether such a situation could be sorted out in three days, but his letters from wife are no doubt more explicit than mine, so I must assume he is right. Isobel is hopeful for a happy ending. Richard thinks things shall return to the way they were before the whole thing was known. I cannot see Verity Hayworth letting go of a child she has finally admitted to be her own, but who knows what they will all do to avoid a scandal.

Charles is restless to be home. As much as he adores Isobel and idolises Henry, I found him sitting with Richard yesterday, talking of everything he missed. It may force Richard into leaving before he has even made up is mind about Isobel. Perhaps he already has. He says nothing of it to me.

Perhaps I shall have better news soon.

With love, Theresa.