I was much relieved after speaking with Mr. Silures. He placed much faith in his cousin's ability to look after things, and of course, Mr. Cormac was very alert and insightful. No one was actualy home at the manor, so Mr. Silures was the only one we spoke with. Looking back, I think that worked out splendidly.

Remembering that I had laid aside the post, I asked Helen if she would be a dear and bring it to me out on the veranda. I needed some time with the children, so we had tea with Mr. Cormac. They seem quite taken with him, and he is delighted to tell them stories filled with magic cauldrons, giants, and wee folk. I am nearly as taken with his stories as they are! Near dusk I sent the children off to their beds at the cemetary and finaly got around to reading the post. Helen brought me a cup of tea and lit a lamp. She had been polishing the silver as Mr. Cormac told his stories. Now she busied herself picking up as I looked through the letters. The poor girl droped the cutlery when I let out a little gasp. I think her nerves are quite on edge. I was quite overcome at reading dear Noreen's letter. There were so many things close together I did not know how to respond -- her parents were dead, she was engaged, to a young man from Drakesheath, of all places, she wanted my help.

I finaly decided to be happy. "Helen, there shall be joy in this house again. A young bride to be will be coming to stay with us. The poor dear has no mother, so it shall be up to us to look after her and give her a proper introduction to society. We are going to have a Spring quite full of teas and showers!" I dear say that Helen looked as happy as I felt at the prospect of a proper social season.