Hello. This was originally posted with the Longbourn Loungers but I just found this here at so I thought I would post here also. I hope everyone enjoys it.

Letters of Engagement - Elizabeth

Dear Georgianna,

Please forgive the informality of my address, in addition to not showing the familiarity I feel for you, given our future state as sisters. Being too strong in either sentiment did not seem prudent, despite my feelings. It is such a contradiction!

Your brother has told me that you are pleased with our engagement; I felt it necessary to write in order to hear it for myself. He is too much of a gentleman to read a lady's letter out loud, although he assured me of your happiness. I sincerely hope it to be the case.

It almost seems necessary to renew our relationship all over again, even if it is only through correspondence. I regret having to leave so quickly during our visit to Pemberley, and not getting to know you better. You were by far the most pleasant part of that trip, even excepting your brother.

So, now I write you as a sister, and I hope, as a friend. Being the second of five daughters, I know that the two are not always hand-in-hand, for all the love we feel for each other. You, however, being so near to William's heart, are immediately dear to mine. I write now to tell you a little more of myself, and to reassure you of my love for your brother.

While I do not know what your brother has told you of me, you mentioned that you had heard much. Given his and my relations at the time, I dread what it could be. In looking back, any bad feelings must be laid soundly and deservedly at my feet. Any good he related we will credit to his generosity.

But none of that! To your brother, I have explained my philosophy of only remembering the past as it pleases, and look how I well I follow my own advice! Suffice it to say that I am exceedingly grateful to his forgiving, loving nature. Although, his manners during this twelvemonth have certainly shown marked improvement….

Either way, Georgianna, please be confident of my deep and devoted love for your brother. And while you may not be able to feel the same for me on such short acquaintance, please be persuaded that I feel no less for you, and greatly look forward to seeing my newest sister here at Netherfeld in the short weeks to come.

I apologize for writing so frankly, but you will find it to be my nature, for better or for worse. You must come soon to help me plan my wedding. My closest sister Jane is, as you know, to marry Mr. Bingley soon, and is far too busy with her own plans to help her younger sister. Which is as it should be! However, I would be extremely grateful for your help and advice in all that is come. And I know William would greatly appreciate another sensible woman to counter the extravagances that some women here are fond of….

All my love and affection,

Elizabeth