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John found his way to the library. It was a grand room, but most of the books had obviously been purchased for style rather than substance. Luckily, John's mind was too occupied to read. John sat down to write business letters at a well-appointed desk by a window. One letter was addressed to his foreman and the other to Nicholas Higgins. He believed that with their assistance the mill would be producing within the month.

John wrote a different sort of letter to his mother. The express he send earlier would inform his mother of the upcoming marriage, but John wanted to send a more detailed and personal epistle. To balance the jarring details of his upcoming nuptials, John let his mother know their move was no longer necessary. The mill would reopen within the month due to Margaret's love and generosity. John closed the letter by reiterating his happiness in marrying Margaret:

"Be happy for me Mother. I truly believe our joy will only increase by welcoming Margaret to our family. I am overwhelmed with hope for our future."

Your loving son,

John

John sealed his completed letters and began to compose another. A few minutes later Simpson entered the library, and led John to a bedroom in the bachelor's corridor. John noticed his valise beside the bed. His best suit was neatly pressed and hanging on the wardrobe. He appreciated the effort the butler had made to make him comfortable.

"Is there anything else you require sir?" Simpson asked.

John paused and responded. "I would be very much obliged if you posted my letters."

"Certainly, sir." The butler took the letters, bowed slightly, and left the room.

The door closed behind Simpson, and John let out a sigh of relief. He felt himself relax for the first time today. As he sat down in a comfortable leather chair beside the crackling fireplace, a Bible verse he learned years ago repeated over and over his mind: 'Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord.'


Margaret attempted to calmly discuss her marriage plans with Edith.

"How can you be so selfish Margaret?" Edith wailed. "Why can't you marry Henry? Certainly you know I had plans for you. And who will play with Shilto when he gets into his cross moods? I certainly don't know what will become of us!

"Edith, you did not seek my permission before you became engaged to Captain Lennox and rightly so. I did not intend to ask your permission-"

"Isn't that what you are doing?" Edith responded sulkily.

Margaret raised her hand to indicate silence and repeated as if she had not been interrupted. "I did not intend to ask your permission. I was merely attempting to share the happy news with my beloved cousin. I thought you would be happy for me. I thought you would assist me in my wedding plans as I assisted you when you were wed."

Edith was silent.

Margaret stood to quit the room. "Edith, I must meet with Aunt in the drawing room. I have a trousseau to select and order. If you would like to join us you will be very much welcome."


After spending the afternoon with her cross Aunt, tediously sorting through piles of fabric, Margaret's nerves were a bit frayed. She walked into her room and began to ready herself for dinner. Margaret glanced into the mirror over the mantlepiece and saw a letter addressed to her. The contents were as follows:

Dearest Margaret,

As you know, I am unused to being without employment. I have tried without success to find interesting reading material in your Aunt's library. The day drags as I wait for an opportunity to see you. I find it ironic that while I attempt to find a way to pass the time you are overwhelmed with wedding preparations. Although it may be unusual, please know that I am willing to help you in any way possible.

Your,

John

P.S. I have heard others say my knowledge of cloth is above average.