A/N: This popped into my mind while I was working on chapter 2 of Vera. I hope that you like it. I appreciate all reviews.
A/N II: I am not sure how much this meshes with prisons in the day.
Disclaimer: If I owned DA, the U.S. would get episodes on the same day that it airs in the U.K.
He was cold. He was always cold. The cold wasn't just in the air. It was in his skin, his bones. His war wound had become a constant source of pain and he worried that it would never be the same.
He had only been in prison for a month. He had started to think that he would welcome the noose if only to be released from the drudgery of his new life. He reached under his pillow and took out the one thing keeping him amongst the sane. He half smiled at the careful, neat script on the envelope. The letter smelled of flowers and soap, conjuring up sunshine and an innocent but also knowing smile. He was still amazed how completely it could create Anna, his wife. He settled down to read it again for the tenth time that day.
Dear Mr. Bates,
I am sorry that I have not written sooner. I wasn't sure if you could even receive letters and then I couldn't think of anything to tell. We've always been able to just tell each other what's in our hearts and minds, even under the watchful eye of Mr. Carson and Mrs. Hughes. I am sure that I will make a muddle of writing to you.
Lord Grantham has been to London twice to visit with Mr. Murray. He won't tell me much about their discussions because it's too early, but I do know that both are thinking that they get the trial moved up to York. I am not sure why this is a good thing, but both have assured me that it would be to your benefit.
I hope that I will be able to see you very soon. Mrs. Hughes told me that I could when things were more settled.
I've been quite busy packing for Lady Mary and Lady Edith. They're getting ready to go over to Dublin for Lady Sybil's wedding to Mr. Branson. Lady Mary seems to have finally resigned herself to the match, and Lady Edith seems genuinely happy for Lady Sybil. I'm to go with them. I am sure that it will be quite the adventure as I've never been on a ship.
It will be nice to get away from Thomas and Miss O'Brien. Their airs have been ridiculous of late. They seem to feel vindicated by your arrest.
We should have a new housemaid soon, taking over from Jane. I am hoping that this girl will last longer and be a more friendly person. These past few weeks have made me wish that Gwen was still at Downton. I could use a late night chat with her.
I am not sure what else to say. I did say that I'd make a muddle of this letter.
With all my love,
Anna Mae Bates
P.S. This is the first time that I could sign my name as your wife.