An unfortunate affair of the heart! He smiled grimly, dipping his pen. Perhaps Hal had a greater sensitivity than he'd thought, in so describing it. But then, all his affairs had been unfortunate, since Hector's death at Culloden. With the thought of Culloden, the thought of Fraser came back to him; something he had been avoiding all day.
The narrator reflects on a painful romantic situation, noting the grim irony of referring to it as an "unfortunate affair of the heart." This resonates with him as he considers the depth of emotions stirred within, especially in connection to his past experiences. He acknowledges a newfound understanding of sensitivity in describing his struggles.
His mind drifts to the tragic memories of Hector's death at Culloden, a loss that haunts him. This event triggers memories of Fraser, someone he has tried to keep at bay in his thoughts throughout the day, revealing the lingering impact of past relationships on his current state of mind.
