Her next sheet of paper was devoted to Mr.
Bowling, and the letter, though brief, cost her some thought.

'Dear Mr.Bowling,--Your last is so very nice and kind that I feel I ought to answer it without delay, but I cannot answer in the way you wish.
I must have a long, long time to think over such a very important question.

I don't blame you in the least for your behaviour to someone we know of; and I think, after all that happened, you were quite free.

It is quite true that she did not behave straightforwardly, and I am very sorry to have to say it.

I shall not be going home again: I have quite made up my mind about that.