It was the beginning of February; and Anne, having been a month in Bath, was growing very eager for news from Uppercross and Lyme. One evening, a letter from Mary was delivered to her; and, to quicken the pleasure and surprise, with Admiral and Mrs Croft's compliments. The Crofts must be in Bath! Anne eagerly opened her letter.

February 1st

My dear Anne,

I make no apology for my silence, because I know how little people think of letters in such a place as Bath. You must be a great deal too happy to care for Uppercross, which, as you well know, usually affords little to write about. I am, however, delighted to say that for once, I have some exciting news to communicate.

Henrietta came by earlier this morning and told me a great secret - Louisa and Captain Wentworth are engaged! True, upon my honour! Henrietta had it from Louisa herself when she was at Lyme. As you know, I had favoured Captain Wentworth for Henrietta, but since she has chosen to throw herself away on Charles Hayter, I am just as content to see the Captain settled with Louisa. What a capital match for her!

It has not been publicly announced as Captain Wentworth has yet to speak to Mr. Musgrove, but I cannot imagine that my father would not give his consent. Therefore, although Henrietta begged me not to tell another soul, I must allow myself the liberty of being the first to inform you. I know, Anne, that you are the epitome of discretion.

Captain Wentworth is presently visiting his brother in Shropshire on some urgent matter, but as soon as he returns, he will proceed directly to Uppercross. Louisa remains at Lyme and is recovering well, and plans to return home on Saturday se'nnight.

The Crofts are going to Bath; Mrs. Croft has offered to convey anything to you. I would make this letter longer, but after writing of Louisa's engagement, all else pales in comparison. I am sure the happy truth will not be concealed for much longer!

Charles joins me in love, and everything proper.

Yours affectionately,

Mary

Anne stared at the paper, her hands trembling uncontrollably.

"How is Mary?" said Elizabeth; and without waiting for an answer, "And what brings the Crofts to Bath?"

"I pray you would excuse me, Elizabeth."

Anne exited the room as quickly as she could. She did not know what Frederick had in mind when he said he would make things right, but surely this was not it.

~~END OF CHAPTER~~

A/N: Oops! Gotta hand it to those gossiping sisters... do you think word will get back to Frederick?