My dear Dorian, I am so, so terribly sorry. I read the story in the paper this evening, purely by chance, and I came to see you as soon as I had gotten the news. I am afraid I have missed you, but perhaps you will receive this note when you return. You went to visit with the girl's mother I suppose? I am so sorry. If you feel up to it, please write me back just to let me know how Mrs. Vane and yourself are faring; I believe I shall be awake all night, so you needn't trouble yourself over waking me.
Please, Dorian, don't do anything rash. I know how very much you loved her and what she meant to you, but for God's sake don't let one tragedy be followed by another. You are her legacy, remember that. You are her tie to life, as it were - the part of her that still lives on despite her passing.
My heart goes to you and her family both. I understand what a burden this sudden bereavement must be to you, and I swear to do my part to help you carry this weight in whatever way I can. I shall be by tomorrow morning if no news from you comes sooner, and God bless until then.
Yours, BASIL