As may be imagined your foolish letter caused both your father and I great displeasure. We both consider your suspicions concerning James Palsey totally unfounded, and from what you say we think our niece Helen Winston must be a very foolish girl to put such notions into your head. Of course we pity her very much, as no doubt it is very sad to have one's father murdered, but to tell you the truth we think she must be a little off her head. (Violent exclamations from Helen). Referring to your letter again I see that you are determined not to Marry James. Now Gladys you must see for yourself how very nonsensical this idea is. James has every means of making you happy and what is more he is very very rich and is by no means stingy with his money, as proof the lodgings you are now in. I am sure he loves you very passionately and he is both truthful and honourable; (sarcastic smiles from both Helen and Gladys), and what is the use of forsaking this good man, whom you know and ourght to love, for some horrible scrapegrace whom you choose to consider faithful? Think over what I have said to you and try and change your mind as regards James. If you resolve to marry him your father and I are quite willing for it to take place at once; if however you persist in this obstinate behaviour, remember you are cut off from our wills and we will not have you in our house, neither will we receive any letters from you. We are not ones to encourage foolish suspicions, and are quite in favour of James. You may write again and tell us what you intend doing.
Yours affectionate Mother,
Ethelreda Lincarrol
P. S. We think the less you associate with Helen Winston the better. Your sisters and brothers are very upset and sincerely hope you will marry dear James."
"A most impertinant letter" cried Helen with burning cheeks and flaming eyes, "I had no idea my aunt was such a cruel, wicked person; I suppose she is in league with him," and she pointed in the direction she thought most likely Mr. Palsey had taken.
"Oh hush Helen" said Gladys "you really have no right to speak like that!"
"Yes I have" stormed Helen, "she dares to say I'm off my head; it is far more likely she is off hers."
"Helen!" cried Gladys "I really wont allow you to say such things about my mother, it is most rude of you."
"I dont care" replied Helen "if I am to be privately insulted in this way I declare I wont stand it, I have surely had enough trouble without this—this——"
Whatever Helen intended to say she got no further, for she quite lost her self-control and burst out crying, her hot tears falling through her fingers and dropping on to her patent leather shoes. Poor Helen! it was indeed sad to have all the miseries of her past life recalled by a few thoughtless words expressed in a letter.