In the spur of the moment, John sat down in front of his desk. He grabbed some paper in front of him and started writing in a rush. "Dear Margaret". No, too personal. "Dear Mrs Hale". Was it proper? "Since now you have taken the position of Mr Bell, a meeting should take place to discuss business matters". Why would they meet? He could not simply beg her to see him; there must be a reason for this encounter. His business is failing, he is losing money. His mother misses her company. No, no one would believe that. Fanny requests a visit to her new house. That could be arranged, but he dreaded Margaret would not go. He had to see her. He threw away the paper. It was impossible.
Margaret sat down at her writing table. She was nervous, trembling. She chose her finest paper and started writing, almost decidedly. "Dear Mr Thornton". Was it proper? "I do not wish to bother your business; however, it seems necessary to have a meeting, since I am now in dear Mr Bell's place". Was this a good reason to meet him? What should she say? She knows nothing of mills and accounts and money. She could not simply ask to see him; there must be a reason for this encounter. She misses the company of his mother. No, no one would believe that. She wants to see Higgins, and give him a basket. That could be done, but Thornton might not be present. She had to see him. She threw away the paper. It was impossible.