The caution had been given to Kate because Kate still transgressed in her letters, by saying little words about her brother.

And Alice did not even now believe Kate to have been false to her; but she saw that she herself had been imprudent.
"I cannot understand it," continued George, speaking without looking at her.

"It was but the other day that we were such dear friends! Do you remember the balcony at Basle?
and now it seems that we are quite estranged;--nay, worse than estranged; that I am, as it were, under some ban.

Have I done anything to offend you, Alice?
If so, speak out, like a woman of spirit as you are." "Nothing," said Alice.
"Then why am I tabooed?
Why was I told the other day that I might not congratulate you on your happy emancipation?
I say boldly, that had you resolved on that while we were together in Switzerland, you would have permitted me, as a friend, almost as a brother, to discuss it with you." "I think not, George." "I am sure you would.

And why has Kate been warned not to tell me of this visit to the Pallisers?
I know she has been warned though she has not confessed it." Alice sat silent, not knowing what to say in answer to this charge brought against her,--thinking, perhaps, that the questioner would allow his question to pass without an answer.