"
In a few days the answer arrived--privately forwarded, of course, to
Post-office, Whitby, by arrangement with my friend in London.
The lawyer's reply was short and surly: "SIR--If my advice had been
followed, you and your anonymous letter would both be treated with the
contempt which they deserve. But the wishes of Miss Magdalen Vanstone's
eldest sister have claims on my consideration which I cannot dispute;
and at her entreaty I inform you that all further proceedings on my part
are withdrawn--on the express understanding that this concession is
to open facilities for written communication, at least, between the two
sisters. A letter from the elder Miss Vanstone is inclosed in this. If I
don't hear in a week's time that it has been received, I shall place the
matter once more in the hands of the police.--WILLIAM PENDRIL." A
sour man, this William Pendril. I can only say of him what an eminent
nobleman once said of his sulky servant--"I wouldn't have such a temper
as that fellow has got for any earthly consideration that could be
offered me!"
As a matter of course, I looked into the letter which the lawyer
inclosed, before delivering it. Miss Vanstone, the elder, described
herself as distracted at not hearing from her sister; as suited with a
governess's situation in a private family; as going into the situation
in a week's time; and as longing for a letter to comfort her, before
she faced the trial of undertaking her new duties.
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