Letter
from Arthur Holmwood
to Dr. Seward "Albemarle Hotel, 31 August "My
dear Jack, "I want you to do me a favour. Lucy is ill, that is she
has no special disease, but she looks awful, and is getting worse every day. I
have asked her if there is any cause, I not dare to ask her mother, for to disturb
the poor lady's mind about her daughter in her present state of health would be
fatal. Mrs. Westenra has confided to me that her doom is spoken, disease of the
heart, though poor Lucy does not know it yet. I am sure that there is something
preying on my dear girl's mind. I am almost distracted when I think of her. To
look at her gives me a pang. I told her I should ask you to see her, and though
she demurred at first, I know why, old fellow, she finally consented. It will
be a painful task for you, I know, old friend, but it is for her sake, and I must
not hesitate to ask, or you to act. You are to come to lunch at Hillingham tomorrow,
two o'clock, so as not to arouse any suspicion in Mrs. Westenra, and after lunch
Lucy will take an opportunity of being alone with you. I am filled with anxiety,
and want to consult with you alone as soon as I can after you have seen her. Do
not fail! "Arthur." |
