Therefore, why should he discuss that most distressing and perplexing subject, which he knew so little about and which she knew all about.

So he merely touched upon Major Bonnet and his vessel, and hoped that she might soon write to him and tell him what she cared for him to know, what she cared for him to tell to the people of Bridgetown, and what she wished to repose confidentially to his honour.
But whatever she chose to say to him or not to say to him, he would have her remember that his heart belonged to her, and ever would belong, no matter what might happen or what might be said for good or for bad, on the sea or the land, by friends or enemies.
This was a rarely good love-letter, but it plunged Kate into the deepest woe, and Dickory saw this first of all.

He had brought the letter, and for the second time he saw tears in her eyes.

The absence of news of Major Bonnet was soon known to the rest of the family, and then there were other tears.

It was perfectly plain, even to Dame Charter, that things had been said in Bridgetown which Mr.Newcombe had not cared to write.
"No, Dame Charter," said Kate, "I cannot talk to you about it.