24 September
(Confidence)
"Dear Madam,
"I pray you to pardon my writing, in that I am so far friend
as that I sent to you sad news of Miss Lucy Westenra's death.
By the kindness of Lord Godalming, I am empowered to read her
letters and papers, for I am deeply concerned about certain
matters vitally important. In them I find some letters from you,
which show how great friends you were and how you love her.
Oh, Madam Mina, by that love, I implore you, help me.
It is for others' good that I ask, to redress great wrong,
and to lift much and terrible troubles, that may be more great
than you can know. May it be that I see you? You can trust me.
I am friend of Dr. John Seward and of Lord Godalming
(that was Arthur of Miss Lucy). I must keep it private for
the present from all. I should come to Exeter to see you at once
if you tell me I am privilege to come, and where and when.
I implore your pardon, Madam. I have read your letters to poor Lucy,
and know how good you are and how your husband suffer.
So I pray you, if it may be, enlighten him not, least it may harm.
Again your pardon, and forgive me.