She did not attempt it by means of Betsey, because, being a woman, she felt instinctively that Betsey was not to be trusted.

But there was only one other to whom she was allowed to speak, except under a supervision as complete as it was unacknowledged.

That other was Mr.Humphreys.

He evinced a constant interest in her affairs, avowing that he always did have a romantic desire to effect the union of suitable people, even though it might pain his heart a little to see another more fortunate than himself.

Julia had given up all hope of communicating by letter, and she could not bring herself to make any confessions to a man who had such a smile and such eyes, but to a generous proposition of Mr.
Humphreys that he should see August and open the way for any communication between them, she consented, scarcely concealing her eagerness.
August was not in a mood to receive Humphreys kindly.