He should have addressed himself to other people." "Other people?
But you don't understand, aunt.

I cannot explain to you.
I expected this letter; and we must see each other." Her voice trembled, failed.
"Shall you not treat my wish with respect, Cecily ?" "Will you explain to me all that you do wish, aunt ?" "Certainly.

It is true that you are not a French girl, and I have no desire to regard you as though we were a French aunt and niece talking of this subject in the conventional way.

But you are very young, dear, and most decidedly it behoved Mr.Elgar to bear in mind both his and your position.

You have no parents, unhappily, but you know that Mr.
Mallard is legally appointed the guardian of your interests, and I trust you know also that I am deeply concerned in all that affects you.
Let us say nothing, one way or another, of what has happened.