THROUGH THE LIBRARY WINDOW Hume did not send a telegram to the Sleagill Rectory.

He explained that, owing to the attitude adopted by the Rev.Wilberforce Layton, Helen avoided friction with her father by receiving his (Hume's) letters under cover to Mrs.Eastham.
The younger man was quick to note that Brett did not like this arrangement.

He smilingly protested that there was no deception in the matter.
"Helen would never consent to anything that savoured of subterfuge," he explained.

"Her father knows well that she hears from me constantly.

He is a studious, reserved old gentleman.