"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."