The character reflects on his intentions to write to Gregory about a young girl he has encountered, someone he believes could be a suitable match for Gregory. However, he realizes that in light of his current troubles, such a letter would hold little value, much like the brief and trivial correspondence he used to receive from Gregory. These letters were always polite but lacked depth, highlighting the disconnect in their relationship.
This realization underscores the precarious nature of his situation, where personal matters seem trivial compared to the challenges he faces. The contrast between his hopeful thoughts and the reality of inaction emphasizes the weight of his responsibilities and the chaos around him, making it difficult to focus on future prospects.