It is to no purpose now to relate particulars, but only renewing our grief.

I can't forbear telling you the Duchess has behaved very oddly in endeavouring to get the guardianship of the young Duke and his sister, contrary to her husband's will; but the boy, when he was fourteen, confirmed the trustees his grandfather left; so that ended all disputes; and Lady Fanny is to live with my aunt Cheyne.

There is a vast number of things that have happened, and some people's behaviour so extraordinary in this melancholy business, that it would be great ease of mind if I could tell it you; but I must not venture to speak too freely in a letter." A week or so later, some further details were forthcoming: "I received yours, dear sister, this minute, and am very sorry both for your past illness and affliction; though _au bout du compte_, I don't know why filial piety should exceed fatherly fondness.

So much by way of consolation.

As to the management at that time--I do verily believe, if my good aunt and sister had been less fools, and my dear mother-in-law less mercenary, things might have had a turn more to your advantage and mine too; when we meet, I will tell you many circumstances which would be tedious in a letter.