What a wonderful analysis, Deborah - thank you! I have a hard time reforming myself from the puddle into which I dissolve to be so clearheaded about it. ;-)

I remember so well the first time I read The Letter. I was riveted, like Anne I felt a hundred different things. I finished it and had to stop reading, actually set the book down, and sigh and think "wow." And then pick it up and read it again.