The writer was learning caution.
Even initials might be dangerous.
As for Eric, he read this note over again with the deepest pain and surprise.
“She means to leave him—there is no doubt of that, but what can she have reference to when she speaks of his cruelty? Joe cruel—Joe, the kindest, mildest, dearest fellow, I ever knew. He could only be cruel by kindness. Either he has done too much for her, or else she is not in her right mind. If that man is cruel then Prescott is a devil, I’m sure. I would that the writer of this could find out the truth—it would serve her well if we let her go on and reap as she has sown but for the sake of my poor friend she must be saved.”
He took out an old envelope and with a pencil copied the note verbatim.
Then he enclosed the original in the envelope, sealed it up, saw that the address was correct, and was ready to have it delivered.
When he issued forth from the confectionary, he looked about him until he saw a bright appearing district messenger boy sauntering along in the manner peculiar to his kind.
This youth he beckoned to his side.
“Can you spare five minutes, boy?”
The other grinned and nodded.