"After proper warning given, Mrs. Vanstone (who is now quite
alone) leaves me to-morrow. She has not concealed from me that her
circumstances are fallen very low, and that she cannot afford to remain
in my house. This is all she has told me--I know nothing of where she is
going, or what she means to do next. But I have every reason to believe
she desires to destroy all traces by which she might be found, after
leaving this place--for I discovered her in tears yesterday, burning
letters which were doubtless letters from her friends. In looks and
conduct she has altered most shockingly in the last week. I believe
there is some dreadful trouble on her mind; and I am afraid, from what I
see of her, that she is on the eve of a serious illness. It is very sad
to see such a young woman so utterly deserted and friendless as she is
now.
"Excuse my troubling you with this letter; it is on my conscience to
write it. If you know any of her relations, please warn them that time
is not to be wasted. If they lose to-morrow, they may lose the last
chance of finding her.
"Your humble servant,
"CATHERINE RUDDOCK."
X.
_From Mr. Loscombe to Mrs. Ruddock.
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