The letter began:
Dear Léontine:
I am safe in my new home, and there's no need to worry. I am picking up all that I have lost. I hope to call on you before long and show what good progress I have made. With grateful messages for Madame, from her devoted little servant, and kind remembrance to you—I am, faithfully yours,
Clodagh Riley.
P.S.—If possible I should like Mr. O'R. to hear that I am doing well. He has been kind since you saw me last.
There was no date and no address on this letter, which filled only one page.
Beverley's bewilderment passed as she studied the letter. Clo's underlying motives came to the surface with a flash.
"I suppose," she explained quietly, "that Mademoiselle fancied it would be a liberty to write to me. I'm glad to hear from her so soon. As the letter is really for me, perhaps I'd better keep it."
"Please do, madame," Léontine urged, again attacking the tiny hooks which fastened her mistress's dinner dress. "I noticed that Mademoiselle did not put the number of the house or street where she is staying. But, of course, Madame will know both."
"Of course," echoed Beverley. She guessed that Léontine must be consumed with curiosity as to Clo's disappearance and the departure of Sister Lake.