"That was why I wanted to give you the letter... Now, I should have simply slipped it into your desk drawer and left it be. I will tell you this, I would never do such a thing to you... I think gossip is for the devil. That was why I said something to you. I thought what the letter said would get you into some trouble and I worried for you. I wasn't worried about what would happen to me, I was worried something terrible would befall you." She mopped at her face and gave a shuddering sigh.