A Most Persuasive Correspondence

Pray forgive my forwardness and temerity, but, so strong is my desire to greet you in person, that I could not entrust the entirety of my heart to the mere leaving of my card in Camden-place. I must write.

Sir, I have been negligent. That you well know. But as time has altered me, so I pray that it may have also softened your heart towards myself. I know not how I might have offended you all those years ago when first we met - - I had longed then to inquire as to what offense I had shewn you that I had been thrown off. But delicacy kept me silent.

Perhaps, sir, you heard those rumours - - I know not who began them! - - that I had spoken disrespectfully or carelessly of the family, and the family honours. But I assure you that I have ever boasted of being an Elliot. My feelings, as to connection, are only too strict to suit the unfeudal tone of the present day! I am, indeed, astonished! But my character and general conduct must refute any rumour that may have so unjustly swayed you against me. If you so desire, I shall refer you to all who know me, and who may vouch for my words. A certain friend of mine, a Colonel Wallis, whose acquaintance you have already made, might make the introductions. My only desire, now, is for reconciliation between us.

If, therefore, it is not too great an imposition, perhaps I may be allowed to call upon you tomorrow afternoon? I can think of no better occasion for reunification. Should this plan agree with you, my very dear Sir, you need only send word back by my man.

Having considered the matter at some length, I have decided that you may call upon us to-morrow afternoon, at what time may please you, so long as it is after one, and before seven - - for my complexion does not do well before the first, and we dine at the other. I may say, with some shew of emotion, that I am pleased to receive you, as I recollect your possessing something of an handsome face - - not unlike my own - - and therefore, should your absence not have wearied your features overmuch, you may attend on us in Camden-place, with Col. Wallis, for some three-quarters of an hour.

A very Happy Christmas to you from Bath! And love to my two precious darlings, whom Mama misses more than the world!

Bath is lovely - - I should not leave it for half the world. Sir Walter fares well, and sends his best. Miss Elliot likewise. Sir Walter should very much like to know how Kellynch-hall fares under Admiral Croft - - and I must admit that I should like to know as well. It bothers me, both for Sir William's peace of mind, as well as my own, to think of anyone but an Elliot living there, where I have spent, and hope to spend, so many happy hours! Perhaps you might send over the eldest - - make up some pretence or another, I am sure she can do it with no difficulty whatsoever; she was excellent during the inquiry in regards to her late father - - and she might send word back how Kellynch looks?

We have had another addition to our happy party here in Bath. One Mr. William Walter Elliot, whom you might recall better than I. He has, this very day, joined us, in all shew of humbleness and contriteness, for reconciliation with Sir Walter. He is a very handsome man - - and young, too! - - but I wish he had staid away. He is nothing but trouble here. For Sir Walter thinks very highly of him after only one afternoon! To be sure, Mr. Elliot flattered Sir William on every vain point - - some of which, I had not thought to mention in all my acquaintance with the baronet! Really, I wish he would leave. And, were he not so very handsome, and so very charming when he decides, I might take steps to insure his permanent absence. The deed is not so very difficult to do when there is a dinner to be had. And, you know, Sir Walter very considerately keeps a jar of arsenic in the pantry - - some twenty years old, I've no doubt - - in case his skin ever grow brown like those dreary Crofts! But it would do. Except that Mr. Elliot is so very handsome. And the heir to a baronetage is much like a baronet....

Well, I shall weary you no more. Again, the joy of the season to my dearest Papa, and my lovely children. Be sure that I think of you when I think of the Infant. Well, enough of that!

I know you well. Your intimacy with my cousin, Elizabeth; your subsequent intimacy with Sir Walter - - and more, your design upon him - - all these I perceived upon no more than three minutes in your company yesterday. Your friendship with Miss you may keep: she is not like to gain another acquaintance willing to tolerate her company. But I advyse you to relinquish your hopes of the baronetage. The heir to Kellynch you will find only in,

You cannot imagine my surprise at receiving your letter to-day! The moreso, since I have only had the pleasure of your acquaintance one night. I blushed when I received it from your man - - what if Miss Elliot had been about! - - and blushed again when I read its contents.

I am at quite a loss! I am sure I do not know how to answer such charges that you lay against me! Surely, you cannot perceive something within me of which I am, myself, not aware? Designs on Sir Walter! No, I must laugh. I really must protest! You deceive yourself. I solemnly assure you that nothing but my regard for Miss Elliot has brought me to Bath - - which reason, I believe, you yourself have come! I needn't mention your own designs upon my friend, or my host! You have yourself stated them! Your designs upon myself are yet to be determined. Perhaps you shall enlighten me when next you visit us?

You do us too much honour, sir! We barely have had time to breathe these past few days since we have become reacquainted with you! And I wonder now, how it were possible that we ever got on without you! You must know that we missed you very much when you could not visit us before. And, although we regretted hearing of the death of your wife, yet I must confess that we received the news of your marriage with something of the same shew of remorse. You must not mistake me - - please believe that we sincerely grieve with you for your loss - - but that your marriage kept you away from the loving arms of the family, and the termination of the same now brings you back - - we cannot help but find joy even in such a time of sorrow. And, as you have been so bold as to reacquaint yourself with us, after so long and unwarranted an absence!, may I return the favour and invite you to dine with us on the first of the New Year? It shall be a small, intimate, gathering. Just family. And Mrs. Clay, of course. Will you come? We shall sit down at eight, which is later than our normal hour, but seems to be quite the mode in Bath! Our man shall wait for your response - - or, better yet, you might bring it yourself. You know the hours we are in. And any visit of yours is always welcome. Until again, I remain your loving cousin,

I have received your invitation to dine to-morrow. I have also received an invitation to dine at Camden-place. You see how my decision must lie. I am sure, however, after an exhausting evening of smiling at Sir William, keeping Miss at some goodly distance, and thwarting her companion through the previous two, I should not find it remiss if you were to admit to owning a bottle or two of hard liquor, and nothing to do late that evening. I might recompense you, and Mrs. Wallis, with some amusing anecdotes from to-morrow's game. Let me know to-night at Greene's party. I shall not see you until then, as my familial duties anchor me to those ridiculous drawing-rooms! Only when freed of them, shall I again be my own,

It is my great hope that this letter finds you well in the New Year, my dear child, and hope of my old age. You will be pleased to hear, in regards to your previous letter, that your eldest did indeed meander to Kellynch-hall, to ascertain its condition, and, along with my own observations from outside, we have observed that, except for the removal of many of the mirrors, and some slight rearrangement of the other furnishings and keepsakes, peculiar to the change of any occupancy, the Hall itself remains in good tact, and well worthy of your hand, when you are able to claim it. You will be further pleased to know that Admiral and Mrs. Croft are considering travelling to Bath come February. Indeed, had you possessed as much patience in this affair as you have shewn in your own dealings on your end, you might have inquired as to the state of Kellynch-hall from them yourself! But I cannot blame you for your anxiety. You have always been impetuous - - yet, likewise, you have always managed your affairs competently after disaster. I've no doubt you shall fare well in this endeavour - - whether you are plagued by Mr. Elliots of all variety or no....

My dear child! I have even now received your letter, and am glad that I did not send this one promptly, as is my fashion! What - - can you be serious! Stupid girl! What can you have meant to have 'put a little aid' in Mr. Elliot's eggnog! I only thank God that Mr. Elliot had the good sense to refuse any glass you handed him! I have done what I could in regards to the inquest on your husband's early grave, but I should not know how to go about clearing not only your name - - but Sir William's as well! - - of such impunity! My dear girl! You must think, and cast off this foolish peevishness - - this irrational grudge - - against a man who offers you no threat beyond a single note, and a few black glances when you meet. Recall: you have no few natural talents, which may dissuade your adversary from his cause. Consider how your glances might divert his attention, how your smiles might be bestowed when your true object is not looking, how your charms and good humour might beguile Mr. Elliot into a fatal sense of ease. In short, girl, make love to the man. I anxiously await your next letter. Do not be long in writing. Or, if in need, flying to the bosom of,

What is there for me to do but to commend you? I had no idea you had such depths of resolve. May I also inform you that I have, still, in my possession, the glass in question? Although this once you have earned my admiration, a second attempt on my life or my person will be taken quite ill. And, as my person, and the personage of my uncle, are nearly one, in blood and primogeniture, you might remember your place, and keep as far from Sir Walter as from myself. I cannot vouch for my own temper. You, Madam, have raised the stakes. Should you persist in your quest of the title, you may find yourself subject to your own concoction. I give you this warning, in all cordiality,

Well! Anne has arrived, and brought a gloom to Bath. She cannot help it, I suppose, and yet I do think she might try to shew a little more gaiety for my sake. But she will not be impressed by our rooms in Camden-place, she will not admit to Mrs. Clay being the most exceptional companion - - and yet, she would greet Mr. Elliot well. She will no doubt write to you and tell you herself how well she finds him. That is in her favour, I suppose. Although not very much so, for I must tell you, Mary, that he greeted her very well also - - nay! He doted on her! And made mention that they had met before in Lyme. They spoke exclusively on the subject! Yet, I cannot imagine that he came here, that he reconciled...for Anne! No, it must be his gentlemanly upbringing. He is an Elliot, through and through. And I am sure he spoke of Lyme overmuch only to be kind to poor Anne who, I am sure, would never have spoken otherwise. She is such a dull girl. I really cannot comprehend her. And you know, when I escorted Mr. Elliot out, last night, he bent over my hand and even kissed it! I can think of no better sign of love than that! Yes, I am sure I shall do all within my power to help my poor, dear cousin to tolerate Anne's miserable company. I long to hear how you and my darling nephews are, and whether Miss Musgrove has recovered from that fall, about which I had to listen to so much last night. You needn't be overnice in your description of her condition. A simple, 'She is alive,' or, 'She is dead,' will suffice. Really, I almost cannot remember her. Wasn't there some mention, a while ago, of her marrying that old beau of Anne's? That might be amusing. Hurry hurry. I shall do my best to exist in the meanwhile.

I am indeed most shocked that you should have stolen a cup from your family! Although, what you mean by telling me that you have it, I do not know. However, as you lay the blame of your crime at my door, I have no choice but to tell you that, to-day, while walking by the Abbey, I happened upon your man and, thinking that he might have a note of apology from you, for your strange letters to me!, I stopped him and asked him whether he had. He said he did, and upon my giving him a bob, he gave me a letter - - a most interesting letter! - - to Col Wallis. Their contents you can well imagine, having written them yourself! But should you doubt my word, I shall spell out some of it. To whit:

I might, sir, recount to you the whole of the letter! For every line of it shewed you more horridly than the one before. And I can only imagine what Sir Walter - - to whom I owe so much allegiance, and heart - - and Miss Elliot will think of such sentiments! Let alone Anne, whose mind you have so highly praised. But, I am not unfeeling. I therefore propose to you an exchange. The letter for the glass. Should this please you, I can meet you in the Marlbrough buildings, your rooms, alone, this afternoon at two. You may, of course, refuse my offer - - but I should hate to think of your welcome to the family so soon terminated! I await your answer - - but shall not wait longer than six this evening.

I should not wish to...varnish your impeccable reputation...by admitting you to my rooms. I shall call this evening - - by six, if you would have it so - - and should you escort me in either direction, the exchange may be effected then. Please understand that I am not interested in your personal charms. If you do not believe me, I shall write a letter to that effect, which you may intercept at your leisure. Until this evening, I remain,

There! You see that dealing with me is not so bad! Although I had a hard time of it explaining to Miss Elliot why I escorted you downstairs. I told her, at last, that I had done so only to ask of you whether your intentions towards Miss Elliot were honourable. Naturally, when she pressed, I, being a true friend, told her that your affections were completely engaged with Miss Elliot. There! You see! I did not lie, either way! And I kept her happy - - and kept you honest, too. For your letter did chiefly revolve around that point. However, sir, I must confess that I am very wearied from such goings-on as these past few weeks! I have a very weak disposition, and I do not know how I may possess myself in silence much longer. I am, inherently, honest. And sooner or later, I am sure, I may slip and tell Miss Elliot what you truly think. But, perhaps, I am mistaken in my own beliefs. For what matter is a hastily dashed letter across town to a friend? You may not have meant what you said. I am sure you have praised hundreds of girls in such notes. You may have praised me! Here, then, is a marvelous opportunity for you to persuade me otherwise. I am completely at your disposal. But name the date, and I shall attend you to hear all that you have to say on the subject. And I shall not be coy with you either. We are both widowed, sir. I think we may trust ourselves! Until then, you must trust in my fragile confidence as much as you trust the confidence of any woman.

I remain, your own,
Penelope Clay

Late January

The Bath Paper

13 January, 1815

Newly arrived to Bath: The Dowager Viscountess Dalrymple. Accompanied by her daughter, the Honourable Miss Carteret. Residence in Laura-place for three months.

~*~

Sir Walter to his cousin, the Dowager Viscountess Dalrymple

17 January, 1815

To the Most Exalted and Venerable Dowager Viscountess Dalrymple, and her Most Honourable and Charming Daughter, Miss Carteret, Greetings from Sir William Walter Elliot, Baronet, and his Whole Household, the Misses Elizabeth and Anne Elliot, Mrs. Mary Musgrove & Family, and Mr. William Walter Elliot.

My dearest Madame, it is with great humility and exuberance that I greet you, and dare to call you cousin. We have recently heard of your arrival in Bath, through the papers, and further, heard accounts of your previous stay from our mutual friend, Lady Russell, whom you may remember. Although our previous relationships have been somewhat strained, in regards to the condolences on your husband's, my cousin's, tragic and lamentable passing, I beg your pardon, and beg leave to convey our family's condolences now. I might, with your leave, continue the strain, enumerating the various causes of such a terrible omission, but I do not wish to strain your ladyship's good will.

O! Madame! Cousin! What could be more Providential than you - - a lady, I have heard, of surpassing beauty and grace, as your daughter no doubt likewise possesses - - and I - - who am likewise favoured, and my eldest daughter no less - - should happen to be in Bath coincidingly! I beg, therefore, I entreat, a reconciliation between our two houses. One afternoon of gazing on each other's faces in admiration. For in such times as these, when the most common man with pretences of grandeur might take a house anywhere he chuses, perhaps next to a very baronet or Viscountess of long-standing line!, we must rally against the vulgar masses and their ill-favoured visages. We of blood must join.

We therefore wait, O! Worship!, upon your answer. Be sure we are ready to wait upon you at any time, on any day, as frequently as might amuse you.

I remain, your most humble and obedient servant and cousin,
Sir William Walter Elliot, Baronet

~*~

Lady Dalrymple to Sir Walter

20 January, 1815

I am very much honoured.
I should be happy in your acquaintance.

~*~

Miss Elliot to Mrs. Mary Musgrove

21 January, 1815

...looked absolutely hideous in that purple dress....

Mary! Such grand news! We are to visit our cousins, the Dalrymples to-morrow! I have not yet seen them, but I am assured that they are very handsome -- although Miss Carteret, I am sure, could not compare to myself. I shall know to-morrow. Father and I alone are going. Anne has no inclination. She has been nothing but a Samaritan bore. Could you not have kept her? We considered bringing Mr. Elliot with us, but, you know, he has been calling nearly every day -- passing me glances of such warmth and admiration whenever no one is looking! -- and yet, never ceasing to speak with Anne, that I have decided that he may just stay at home and visit with her if such is his inclination. When alone with such a drudge, I cannot think but he shall cleave to me after! His glances are so warm! I nearly faint whenever he walks into the room. Mrs. Clay seems to have taken a disliking to him, and it was she who urged me to punish Mr. Elliot and keep him from our illustrious cousins. Of course, as I pointed out, if Mr. Elliot and Anne weren't to go, she couldn't either. She blanched when I said this, but very soon recollected herself and urged me anyway. She is indeed worth a thousand Annes. Anne would urge the same, no doubt, but then still refuse to come, so that she might stay with him! Well, I shall outsmart them all.

Where was I? Oh, yes, the Assembly. Lady Beauchamp wore the most outlandish turban....

~*~

Mr. Elliot to Mrs. Clay

22 January, 1815

My dear Mrs. Clay,

I thank you for your kind offers, in the forms of the nearly daily notes you have sent me, entreating, coquetting, and otherwise scheming to find me alone in my apartments. Naturally, given your previous disposition towards me, and your apparent wish for my hasty departure from this world, your requests for a private interview have given me some pause. However, I find that I am in a state in which your singular powers might be of some use. I am informed that Sir Walter and Miss are to wait on Lady Dalrymple to-morrow. In which party, I have not been asked to attend. Nor, I discern, have you. (A most unfortunate oversight for one so securely situated in that august household as you are!) Perhaps, then, since we neither of us shall be occupied whilst the baronet and his daughter fawn over the Viscountess, you might consent to join me in the Marlborough buildings at that time? You needn't reply. If you arrive, we shall have time enough to discuss then.

Yours,
Wm. Elliot

~*~

Mrs. Clay to Sir Walter

23 January, 1815

My darling Walter,

What a long night it has been! How lonely without you! How I longed to see your handsome face this evening! But of course, I feel nothing but joy for you, at your meeting, which has kept you so long from me! How I wish I might have been with you! Mr. Elliot stopped by, having forgotten you were all out, and expressed his wish to be with you. Oh! How similar our two desires are! Perhaps you might be able to discover whether Lady Dalrymple might admit ourselves as well? I cannot imagine she would object to Mr. Elliot -- and I am so nearly family! Until tomorrow, my darling, I remain your devoted,

Penelope

~*~

Sir Walter to Mr. Elliot

24 January, 1815

My very dear Mr. Elliot,

It would be my very great pleasure if you would accompany my daughters and I, with Lady Russell and Mrs. Clay, to an afternoon gathering with our honoured cousins, the Viscountess Dalrymple and the Hon. Miss Carteret, her daughter, three days hence. I have assured them that you have a pleasing countenance, and it would be no disgrace to meet you.

Yours, &c.,
Sir Walter Elliot, Bt.

~*~

Mr. Elliot to Sir Walter

24 January, 1815

My good sir --

It would be my very great honour to join you, and my cousins, to the Dalrymples. I have, at present, another engagement on that night, to Col Wallis -- - but that can be easily terminated. I am entirely at your disposal. However, sir, I must admit some concern for the good name of Elliot. In your letter to me, you intimated that not only should I, a member of the family, be introduced to our exalted cousins, but that Lady Russell and Mrs. Clay should be in attendance as well! Really, my dear uncle, can we strain this delicate relationship so early? Can you, as head of the household, truly presume to introduce two women so totally unconnected to the family blood? Lady Russell may cause no discomfort to the Viscountess and her daughter -- - for she has been introduced before - -- but given the...delicacy...of your situation, perhaps you had best introduce Mrs. Clay at some later date, when you have had ample time to acquaint Lady Dalrymple of your daughter's companion. My concern, only, is for the family name, who, myself, so humbly share its grandeur as

W. Walter Elliot

~*~

Mrs. Clay to Mr. Elliot

25 January, 1815

Blackguard! Traitor! How could you! How could you! Well -- see if I am not included in the next visit. You are not the only one with persuasive charms! Nor that my heart belongs to anyone but the family head. Arrange your deceptions by yourself next time! You shall find no help in,

P. Clay

~*~

Col. Wallis to Mr. Elliot

26 January, 1815

Dear Elliot -

Naturally I absolve you from any prior engagements with me, when you have so tempting a prise to be won. So your Penelope managed to gain you an audience with the Dowager and with your Anne, eh? I must commend you. Were I in your position, I doubt I should be half so shrewd. Well, here's to a many months of being thrown over for the Dowager's beck-and-call! Don't forget your friends who introduced you so long ago. A bottle and a willing ear are always at your disposal, in the person of your friend,

Col. Wallis

~*~

Mr. Elliot to Mrs. Clay

26 January, 1815

My very dear Mrs. Clay,

You may keep your heart. But you may wish to reclaim your handkerchief.

Yours in sincerest gratitude,
W. M.

February (Conclusion)

Dear Readers -
Well, so here it is! The final segment of this short BoI. I've a chapter of NC in the works - just needs some finishing touches and it'll be up. Enjoy!

~*~

Mrs. Mary Musgrove to Miss Elliot

4 February, 1815

Dear Elizabeth,

Miss Louisa Musgrove is alive. I am very ill. But no one cares for me, since Louisa has refused to die. I have written everything to Anne, since she wrote to me about things of interest. You may ask her if you care for the news. No one has visited me since mid-month. I am sure I shall not last out the Winter. I am glad Mr. Elliot is very well - it is always nice to know when others are in health, even if it does make the hearer more miserable. But I never complain. Very nice to hear, also, that Lady Dalrymple received you all so well. Especially Mr. Elliot, although I have not yet met him! Perhaps you shall be married before the year is out, and we might get those awful Crofts out of Kellynch-hall. You have heard that they are coming to Bath? They have not sent me a note, I heard it second hand. I daresay Father will think to introduce them as well to Lady Dalrymple - he seems to let everyone in, although I cannot think why. And I cannot understand why he should have also allowed Mrs. Clay in, as well. I am sure that if I ever came to Bath, she would not admit to seeing me. For, you know, I have not been up to the Great-house in so very long, I cannot imagine that my own cousin should shew me any better behaviour. But I suppose Mrs. Clay begged you to let her come. Really, Elizabeth, will she never leave? I grow weary with writing. Give my love to Father. We all send ours.

Yours affectionately, &c., &c.,
Mary M--

~*~

Mrs. Clay to Mr. Elliot
(Returned; Unopened - with Several Other Billets of a Similar Scent)

6 February, 1815

My darling William,

What a long night it has been! How lonely without you expressly by my side! How I longed to see your handsome face this evening glance even once my way! How I loathed Anne for all the secret smiles you bestowed on her. But I know where your heart belongs. Heart and handkerchief are one, are they not? And surely, you would not keep such an...intimate momento of mine if you did not truly have feelings for me. We must not let Sir Walter know, of course. He would surely question why you had my handkerchief. He would certainly guess it out at once - he is such a jealous man, you know. It would quite make you blush if I told you half of what he says to me. It would quite make you jealous, I am sure! Yes, I know you cannot part with my handkerchief, which I left so unwittingly at our last assignation. Who can part with his heart? Oh! How similar our two desires are! How duplicitous our games! For I must make love to Sir Walter and you to his daughter, while we pine for one another. The handkerchief you retain expresses it. Until tomorrow, my darling, I remain your devoted,

Penelope

Mr. Elliot to Mrs. Clay
(Enclosed with the Above)

10 February, 1815

Madam -

I should not wish you to be deceived: that I did not walk you home from Mollands, was not an error. Miss Anne Elliot possesses a sturdier sole than you ever shall. Her taste in fragrances is likewise superior. My fondest hopes that you enjoyed the brief company of Lady D- and her carriage; I doubt the favour shall be extended much longer. Enclosed, please find the several letters you have sent. I would return them to Sir Walter, except that I heard him remark on the fine features of Lady Russell last night.

Condolences,
Wm. Elliot

~*~

Col Wallis to Mr. Elliot

10 February, 1815

Elliot -

Good God man! What an urgent, terse letter is this even from you! I assure you I am quite taken aback. How should I answer? The man you describe that you met in Mollands - I must admit he fits no one of my acquaintance which, until your missive this evening, I considered no mean circle. Of a naval demeanour, you say? Gentlemanly? My first inclination were to name him Admiral Croft, whose acquaintance I made no few days ago, and who is newly arrived in Bath. But as you named this intrusive man someone of prime rather than middling years, and more, since you particularly stressed his attitude towards your cousin as something bordering on amorous rather than solicitous (and Adm. Croft is, to all accounts, happily married), I must admit myself completely baffled. Were you not so set on keeping Mrs. Clay at bay, I should enjoin you to employ her dubious services in this matter. Nevertheless, I shall make enquiries as best I can, and inform you when first I hear reliable news. It is the least I can do, for one who calls you a friend,

Wallis

~*~

Mrs. Clay to Mr. Elliot

12 February, 1815

My very dear Mr. Elliot,

Well! And what do you think! I have a piece of news for you - - and from a most unlikely source! Lady Russell has seen a most remarkable man, a naval man - - as you mentioned in passing last night - - and, feeling peevish, it was little trouble to induce her to speech by merely listening. The gentleman, as you term him, is a Capt. Wentworth, who once was engaged to your beloved cousin Anne and, so I have reason to know - - by means of Elizabeth carelessly leaving about Mary's latest letter - - was once engaged to Miss Musgrove late last year, but is no longer attached. Certainly, Mr. Elliot, with your keen powers of observation, what you must have discerned that day when you caught Anne with her former paramour was the abiding love between your cousin and her Captain!

It grieves me to write this, as you must know. I never like to cause pain. Least of all to one so helpful as you. But I should hate for you to break your heart unnecessarily. In light of this intelligence, you might consider looking elsewhere for a bride. As I recall, a certain Miss Elizabeth Elliot would not say 'no' to your proposal. Although I cannot be sure that this should ensure for you the title, since I have a son of my own - - a ready heir. All my love and felicity,

Yours ever,
P --

~*~

Nurse Rooke to Mrs. Smith

15 February, 1815

Ma'am,

What news, ma'am! All the liddle uns are sleep, an the Missus Wallis as just tol me the mos interestin news I'd heard all week. She says you might congradylate yur friend, Miss Eliot, who, she says, is, if not now engagd to Mr. Eliot, will be very short. He were by her side mos of the evenin at the concert, she says, an there heads were together, whisperin so close they was near kissin right there in the Sembly Rooms! He's mos taken with her, an it seems yur friend has got her head on right when it comes to him. I know yu'd want ta know, considrin Miss Eliot is comin to visit on the morow, an I no what you think of Mr. Eliot and all - but I also no yur heart, an yu'd not want to hurt Miss Eliot's feelins, if she's so set on him as the Missus says she is. An, if I may be so bold, I mus say that there iddn't a finer man in Bath if yur lookin for looks an charm an money. He's a rotter, sure and true - I amn't beliddlin yur misfortunes at his hands - but I can't help but think that he'd not set out to ruin hisself nor the woman he married for as close to love as his black heart can come. The Missus is just full o' informashun to-night, an she says the concert was specially full o' doins, what with Lady Dalrymple and her dotter there, an all the hubbub that always makes, an then there was also a young Irish sailor there, what that Miss Eliot spoke to, an even persood, so Missus says. Yur friend has a fine heart, that she does, ma'am. Nivver one to shun a fellow human bein. I'll be roun at ten as usual, with more news ifn the Missus thinks o' more for me.

Yurs sinserelie,
Nurse Rooke

~*~

Mr. Elliot to Mrs. Clay
(On a Scrap of Program; Handed to Mrs. Clay during an Afternoon Visit)

16 February, 1815

I must come again this evening. Do not conceive it
is to see you. I must meet with Anne. I am to Thornberry-
park tomorrow. She would not answer me at the concert. Capt. was there. You must convince Miss Elliot to invite me this evening. I depend entirely upon you.

W-

~*~

Mrs. Clay to Mr. Elliot

16 February, 1815

Well, sir, now you have had your opportunity! Shall you disclose whether you were successful? If so, I wish you every felicity. Recalling, of course, that some recompense is due to she who aided you in your venture. The return of the remainder of my letters would suffice. You may keep my handkerchief. Indeed, I hope you will. It is embroidered. If, however, you have not been successful in your suit, keep in mind what I have said to you before. There is very little I would not do for Kellynch. Indeed, my eldest quite has her heart set on it, dear thing. And I am a loving Mother! When shall I see you again?

Yours faithfully,
Penelope

~*~

Mr. Elliot to Mrs. Clay

17 February, 1815

I have not quit Bath. Meet me this afternoon by the Pump Rooms. I shall tell you what little there is to tell. I still have hope. As, I perceive, do you. How old is your eldest child? Perhaps I shall marry her.

W-

~*~

Miss Elliot to the Musgroves, &c.,

17 February, 1815

To Mr. and Mrs. Musgrove, Family, &c.,

You are invited to-morrow evening to the home of Sir Walter Elliot, Baronet, to meet a few friends; no formal party.

Miss Elizabeth Elliot at home, &c....

~*~

Capt. Frederick Wentworth to Miss Anne Elliot

I can listen no longer in silence. I must speak to you by such means as are within my reach. You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope. Tell me not that I am too late, that such precious feelings are gone for ever. I offer myself to you again with a heart even more your own than when you almost broke it, eight years and a half ago. Dare not say that man forgets sooner than woman, that his love has an earlier death. I have loved none but you. Unjust I may have been, weak and resentful I have been, but never inconstant. You alone have brought me to Bath. For you alone, I think and plan. Have you not seen this? Can you fail to have understood my wishes? I had not waited even these ten days, could I have read your feelings, as I think you must have penetrated mine. I can hardly write. I am every instant hearing something which overpowers me. You sink your voice, but I can distinguish the tones of that voice when they would be lost on others. Too good, too excellent creature! You do us justice, indeed. You do believe that there is true attachment and constancy among men. Believe it to be most fervent, most undeviating, in

F. W.

I must go, uncertain of my fate; but I shall return hither, or follow your party, as soon as possible. A word, a look, will be enough to decide whether I enter your father's house this evening or never.

~*~

The Bath Paper

20 February, 1815

Engagement of Miss Anne Elliot, daughter of Sir Walter Elliot, Bt., to Captain Frederick Wentworth, H.M.N.

~*~

Mr. Elliot to Mrs. Clay

20 February, 1815

Madam -

I have heard the news about the engagement, and am departing this very day for London. You may follow or not as your fancy suits you. I am no lover, I will not be kind, and I've no intent of making an honest woman of you - if indeed, you were ever an honest woman to begin with. In short, I offer you nothing beyond these few lines upon a penny-worth of paper. If you desire more, please believe you will never find it in,

W. E.

~*~

Miss Elliot to Mrs. Mary Musgrove

22 February, 1815

My Dear Mary,

Mr. Elliot has gone! He has left without so much as a parting card! No more than two months and he has gone! I cannot believe it! Tell me, has he written to you? Did he leave his regards with you? Have you heard or seen of him since the announcement? I have asked everyone, but the most I have heard is from Penelope, who declares that she has no idea, but that he might have gone to London. Can he have gone? What should he have gone for? And he had been so well received just a week ago by Lady Dalrymple at our card party! He was quite the favourite! I cannot conceive what - - or who - - should have driven him away! But perhaps he shall come back. Do you not think he might come back? Certainly, he has left on business. Perhaps having to do with his late wife. Perhaps he is even now gone to London to attend to his business affairs and accounts to be sure that he can provide for his bride. Do you not think so? What with the Musgrove girls marrying, and Anne - - can you believe it? - - too, he must have marriage on the mind. Yes - - I am assured. That is the reason for his departure. And presently I am sure we shall hear from him. And if you hear from him first, you shall of course tell me at once? For you know he is the best society in Bath. I shall be quite lost without him at the Assembly Rooms. I have thrown off several beaus, you know, in deference to him. I am sure he shall return. I suppose you will be going to that dreadful theatre tonight? Call on me before you go. I might come, if I do not hear from him.

All my love, &c.,
Elizabeth

~*~

Mrs. Clay to Mr. Shepherd

5 March, 1815

Dearest Papa,

I hope you shall be satisfied to keep my darlings with you for some time longer? I have removed to London, with Mr. Elliot, whom you may recall. I have taken your advyse, and pursued him. Sir Walter is nothing to me now. He loves himself so greatly, there is no room for another wife. Besides, I do not love him. Whom then do my affections tend on? No doubt you have already guessed. But you must recall that the new scheme was of your own doing! And, because Mr. Elliot is so much younger, and so very handsome, and of such good breeding, I have no doubt that he shall make an honest woman of me. Else, I pinched Sir Walter's arsenic before I left. But it will never do to have the children with me now. You must understand that. Have the eldest look into Kellynch whenever she likes, though. For it shall be hers one day! I have not altered in that, at least. I have always been the most constant of women - - it is a failing of mine. Perhaps I shall find time at Easter to visit my dear Papa and children. But we shall see what Walter likes. I completely doat on him, and have no room in my heart for others.

All my love, your very own,
Penelope

~*~

Mr. Elliot to Sir Walter

11 March, 1815

My very dear Sir Walter -

Pray forgive my hasty departure from Bath and from you. Business in London called me away, and I do not doubt I should remain here for some time, with no means of returning whilst you are residence. I have with me, under my protection, Miss Elliot's companion, Mrs. Clay. She sends her regards and regrets as well. She also sends you these chocolates, of her own concoction, which we sincerely hope you and Miss Elliot enjoy. You will pardon the old lace around the box - - we were hard pressed to send this to you post-haste. Please convey my regards to Lady Dalrymple, and more, to my cousin, Anne, whom I wish very happy. Do not bother to look for me at the wedding. I shall, upon that day, most likely be found with my good friend, Col. Wallis, and a glass of Chardonnay. I cannot speak for Mrs. Clay. She may do as she likes, and it may give her pleasure to witness a wedding, if she cannot herself participate. I cannot say that my time with you was pleasant, although it was diverting. For Anne's sake, only, did I bear your company. And for Kellynch's sake shall I enclose my London address. Thus we part once more, yourself from your heir,

Wm. Elliot

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FINIS