Arthur paused and sat in silence pondering what Matilda had said. She was right in saying that he had neither promised or been asked to write to her, and therefore had no obligation to do so. In truth that wasn’t the reason for his regret.

“Yes I might have had a valid excuse, but that doesn’t negate the regret of not attempting to continue on fostering what we had in Bath.” Arthur finally replied. “In truth I had contemplated proposing while in Bath.” 
Arthur paused, wondering if he had divulged too much inappropriately. 

“I’m sorry, I should not have burdened you with that. I had always meant to write but...”

He stood up and started to pace around the room, a habit he had developed in awkward conversations. 

“But war complicates life.” He continued. “But please for my sake, let us leave the past behind us and enjoy the time that we have.” 

He paused and stood awkwardly. He had been a fool. There was no virtue in dredging up the past to deal with past regret. Matilda did not need to know what he had meant or wanted to do. That was years ago, now ancient history. 

[i]I need to leave.[/i]

“Well I better not give the servants any more gossip, I will fetch the driver and return the carriage to the Hall.”