After leisurely walking back to the Great House, Frederick decided to return to Kellynch rather than stay with the Musgroves. He had mixed emotions about Anne's refusal of Charles Musgrove's proposal. Why did she say no?

The Musgroves were a loving and caring family. They would have treated Anne well and she would have been happy. The fact that Mary was allowed to marry Charles, also showed that Anne's family were not against the match. That meant that the refusal must have come from Anne. But why? Did she... Frederick shook his head at the thought. He refused to entertain the thought. It wasn't for me. It can't have been.

Truth be told, Frederick was still struggling to forget Anne a couple of years after their break up. He could not even begin to think of being with another woman. The thought of misunderstanding Anne's feelings as love for himself was the only thing that explained their failed union. If two people were truly in love with each other, nothing could keep them apart.

Frederick truly felt anger at Anne's weakness. Her inability to stay firm with her own mind, had delivered the worst pain he had to ever endure. It created an abhorrence for inconsistent behaviour. Something he would never stand for again. With these thoughts, he entered Kellynch.

"Frederick, a letter has come for you," said Sophia.

Frederick opened the letter immediately. It was from Harville.

My Dear Friend,

I hope you are well. I am writing to let you know that I have settled in Lyme. We have a charming little house near the coast, which the wife and kids adore. The sea air also helps improve my health, so I take a walk along the coast everyday to get the most benefit.

Benwick has been staying with me. His spirits are still low but I am hoping with time, they will improve. It has been a long time since we last met. I hope you are enjoying your stay with your sister. But if you are able, maybe you could pay a visit to Lyme? Although it is November, the weather is still mild enough to enjoy the outdoors. And I'm sure Benwick will benefit from the extra company.

Hoping to see you soon,

Your friend

Harville

Sophia watched Frederick eagerly read the contents of the letter. "Is all well?" she asked.

"Yes," replied Frederick with a smile. "It is a letter from Harville. He is settled in Lyme where Benwick is staying with him. He is asking if I could visit. Would you mind if I go today? I am eager to see them both again. Since Harville's accident, we have not seen each other since I started my last voyage."

"Of course not! You must go see them," said Sophia, relief coursing through her veins that it wasn't a letter containing news of someone's death. "Will you be returning tonight?"

"No, I think it is too late in the day to be able to return at a decent time. I will stay at an Inn nearby and return before supper tomorrow evening."

"Very well. Travel safely and we will see you tomorrow."

And with that, Frederick packed his travelling bag with all his essentials and began his 20 mile journey for his reunion with two of his dearest friends.

Harville had earned a special place in Frederick's heart. His compassion during Frederick's heartbreak made Frederick fiercely loyal to Harville. He was willing to do anything for his friend.

The friendship was equally honoured by Harville. Captain Harry Harville, had just one sister, no brothers. However, he had come to consider Frederick as a brother. Throughout their friendship, they both experienced their own sorrows, but had the other's support. This helped strengthen their friendship over the years, despite long periods of absences.

Frederick arrived at Lyme in good time and spent the evening reacquainting himself with both his friends. The first half of the dinner was spent discussing what each of them had been occupying themselves with since last meeting. The latter half was filled with reminiscing about past mischief.

When Frederick mentioned Kellynch, Harry Harville raised an eyebrow. Respecting Frederick's privacy, Harry did not make a comment. But he did wonder if his friend had met Anne again. Frederick was supposed to stay with his sister for a week before returning to his brother. However something had made him extend his stay, which Harry suspected involved a lady.

The following day, Frederick left after lunch, with a promise to return soon. Harry could see that Frederick was happy, and wished that his happiness was due to finding someone to settle down with. I will find out for sure soon enough, thought Harry as he watched Frederick drive home.