I wrote this in 2006, inspired by Hamlet. Enjoy.

Chapter 1: An Introduction

I'm not really sure what to write to be honest. I've been given this book by my good friend Horatio for my birthday, which was about a fortnight ago. I felt guilty about it for I've worn the dress Ophelia gave me thrice, Rose has given me a bracelet which I have not taken off since putting on, and the Queen gave me a brooch that I love dearly. I received a peacock feather quill from Laertes (Ophelia's brother) but nothing from Hamlet. I think it's because of his uncle's marriage to his mother that he's forgotten and he is now dull and moody. This time a year ago he was cheerful and lively, even for a scholar. Horatio is a scholar too and studies philosophy, which is probably why this book is a rather dull colour and has no pattern on it. Well, you cannot judge a book by its cover and I've decided to use it for writing in daily. Or as much as I can.

Sorry, I haven't introduced myself. I'm Julia and I live here in the castle of Elsinore, in Denmark. I'm a lady-in-waiting to Queen Gertrude with my second cousin Rose, who is a year older than me. We are both friends with Ophelia, who is the daughter of Lord Polonius, the man in charge of running the household. She has a brother called Laertes, who is very handsome and courteous. I have an inkling that Rose is secretly enamoured with him, for I caught her writing his name over and over on a sheet of spare parchment… with hearts. I don't think Laertes sees how much attention he is getting from her and is not very much interested in her. He's more into jousting, parrying, adventures and visiting new places… and spending money like water (so I've heard).

It is obvious, however, that Hamlet adores Ophelia. He's sent her countless tokens of his affection and she returns them with smiles and kindness. She's the sweetest girl you will ever meet. She never thinks ill of anyone, not even her own father, the tiresome, vexing and burbling Polonius.

I'm an orphan: Rose's aunt the Lady Helga is my guardian and she's one of the Queen's closest companions. She gave me a belt for my birthday and a shawl, for it is very cold here near the sea. It's so windy, especially up on top of the battlements.

Horatio said that last night he saw the phantom of the late King Hamlet, who died two months ago. He made me swear not to tell anyone and he's going to show and tell Hamlet of what he has seen. The men on guard also saw it and Horatio told me that they are very shaken by what has happened.

I'm secretly pleased that Horatio told me first and not Hamlet. This means I'm probably a good friend of his and not just another lady of the court he chooses to be courteous with. I know him well, for he has spent many holidays here at the castle. For the rest of the year he is at school with Hamlet in Wittenburg. I'm not sure if Hamlet plans to return or not but Horatio definitely wants to.

I wish Horatio would stay here with me. I like him and enjoy his company. There is something pleasing about the way he speaks. Not with aloofness like Hamlet but with friendliness and he treats me like another scholar with equality and interest.

I sometimes wish that I could further my education but everyone treats women as if they're idiots – it makes me mad. I have tried to take an interest in mathematics and physic, but I prefer reading and writing and history and stories. Lady Helga says it is not good for a woman to become too interested in these matters and I should be more busy attending the Queen. But her Majesty is far more interested in spending all her time with King Claudius. They are besotted with each other and, in my opinion, make quite an exhibition of themselves. Well, hey ho! They are married of course, and they love each other deeply and they seem happy, even though Hamlet is unhappy.

I have to go for supper now, I hear the bell.