Claire responded with a question, looking at him fixedly.
"Why did you write me that letter?" she said.
"Did it offend you?" he asked.
"No and yes. You might not have reproached me until you knew more of the real truth."
Thurston stroked his gray mustache. "I think I knew all the truth," he said. "I know it now, at least."
"Your sister has told you," Claire retorted, with speed.
"Yes and no," he responded, not mocking her own recent words, yet leaving a distinct impression that he had half repeated them. "You forget that I have seen you reigning on your new throne."
"Let us be candid," said Claire. "Your note was almost a sneer."
He slowly shook his head. "It was a regret."
"You think I might have done greater things."