I said in downright sincerity that I regarded you as almost the best friend I had, and I have not so many friends that the word means nothing to me.

I do remember all your kindness in the past--when have I forgotten it for an hour ?--but that does not change the essential instincts of my womanhood, and since we parted I've grown to womanhood.

You in one sense have not changed, and I still am in your mind the invalid child you used to indulge and fondle.

It is not just to me now to ask that I act and feel as if there were a natural tie between us.

The fact ever remains that there is not.