Chapter 31
Dear Miss Hart,
I hope this letter finds you in good health. I take the liberty of writing because I believe you ought to know how matters have stood at Thornwick since your departure.
His Grace has been greatly indisposed in spirits.
I would not distress you unnecessarily, yet I think it only right that you should know the truth.
For several days after you left, he scarcely touched food.
In moments of temper, he did considerable damage to certain rooms of the house, and for a time, he neglected himself entirely—refusing proper meals, and showing little concern for his appearance or comfort.
The servants were much troubled by his condition.
Of late, however, there has been some improvement.
A few days ago, His Grace spoke to me of his intention to set matters right—by which I am confident he referred to you.
Since then, he has resumed taking his meals regularly, has begun again to attend to his person, and has taken up the business of the estate, which had been much neglected during that unhappy period.
He speaks of you often—though never plainly, for pride forbids it—but I observe him watching the post with great attention, as though expecting tidings that do not arrive. I cannot say with certainty what he intends, yet it is my belief that he is striving to gather the courage he lacked before.
I would not presume to promise anything. I have known His Grace since he was a boy, and I know well how deeply his fears are rooted. Still, you brought a great deal of light into this house, Miss Hart, and I do not believe that light has been wholly extinguished.
Pray do not answer this letter. Were His Grace to discover that I had written, he would be most displeased with me. Yet I could not bear that you should remain in ignorance where there may still be cause for hope.
I remain, Miss Hart,
Your obedient servant,
Eleanor Blackley