Ten

Tom,

I realize that I just sent my little missive two days ago, but I couldn't keep from writing again. I do want to know what your news is, desperately in fact, but I am confident that you will inform me as soon as you are able. I hope you didn't take my note the wrong way. So as a sign of good faith I decided that I could write to you again instead of waiting for your response. It's perfectly sensible, is it not? Besides, I knew you would be waiting on pins and needles for a detailed description of the wedding. Men often pretend to think little of these things but you by dear must enjoy it.

Yes, I am laughing at you. You must forgive me though because at the moment of writing this, I'm in quite a happy mood. I shall tell you why in a moment. First I shall regale you with all the boring little details of the wedding between your two favorite people. Starting with the weather, which was perfection. Nary a cloud in the sky and it was not too hot. The bride was everything lovely in ivory satin and lace from Paris. Everyone was in raptures over it, although it was a little low cut for my personal taste. It's a wonder how she gets away with it. Our groom was as dashing as ever. The red regimentals are quite complimentary with his fair coloring. It convinced me to insist that Cassandra wear more red. I of course cannot manage the color. I had the unfortunate luck to be born with dark hair.

The ceremony was in my father's traditional economical style and was performed with as much elegance as could be expected in a country chapel. There had been speculation that the bride would not be quite satisfied with the arrangements, but if that was the case you would never know it. Eliza was luminescent in her happiness. The luncheon was comfortable and the food quite delicious. There was more variety of dishes than I suspect was really necessary but not one guest went away not proclaiming high praise of the meal.

Now though I shall get into the more interesting news, the guests. Needless to say everyone that was invited did indeed attend. It was the perfect opportunity to reacquaint myself with some of the families that I had seen little of since the story of our running away was passed around. You must be proud of me though because I behaved myself very well and even succeeded in swaying a few of the more difficult guests back into my favor. The most promising part of the day was when I spoke with your aunt, Mrs. Lefroy. The meeting took place with only the best possible outcome being the result. You cannot know how pleased I was at that. All prejudice or derision was put aside, and though not quite the same, the warmth with which she greeted me left me in no doubt of her continuing affections. We are slated to have them over for tea Thursday next. I know it's not much but renewing the friendly relations with your family can only be a boon to our situation.

Now back to why I'm in such a jolly mood. I don't know if the feelings will translate but I have had the most spectacular, creative, inspirational, romantic, prolific, and intense writing session. I dare say session is not quite the right word, for it lasted two whole days and nights. The novel I began in London is finally coming together and I must admit I am very pleased with my progress. I cannot wait to share it with you.

I should finish this letter though. Two nights of little to no sleep has left me quite exhausted. Please hurry and try to write again. I miss reading something new.

All my love,

Jane