...about time I posted this!
May 186- +1
Beth,
The fateful day has almost come, we're sailing for England in hardly more than a week, and will very probably be well on our way by the time this letter reaches you. Papa's business in America ended sooner than expected and he was called back to England rather abruptly. I thought we would be here through the end of the month, but unfortunately that is not the case. Over the past months I've come to like America very much (although I dare say this may have something to do with you being so close). I cannot fathom what it will be like with an ocean between us. I'm enclosing our address, so if you write I will no doubt receive any letter you send shortly after we arrive.
I rather like the sea and sailing, I've found. When we came over, I was cranky because of my leg, but upon reflection, I feel as though I overlooked so many wonderful things on our first voyage. The smell of the salt in the wind is exhilarating, provided you are not too grumpy to enjoy it. Have you ever been to the sea? I'd like to think you have. In my mind I can imagine it- little Beth, standing on the shore, gazing into the setting sun while the waves gently roll along mumbling quietly. It could be a sunrise, but I associate you with sunsets. I can't rationalize why; it just looks more like a sunset. Maybe it's because I know your evenings are cheery and warm with your family, but in the morning the chill of the night still lingers… But I fear I digress. Something very unlike me seems to have entered my thoughts.
There is one good thing, though. My leg has recovered nicely. Finally I can manage to get about without that ghastly crutch. It's been so long since I've been able to walk normally that I wouldn't be the least bit shocked if I've forgotten how! And now here's to hoping I remember. I don't want to be left with a bloody limp- pardon my language but it's the best way to express my frustration. But at least I will be able to join Papa and Fred in riding and hunting again.
And on another subject, good for old Brooke! I remember seeing him and your sister together and can recall the way they looked at each other. I didn't understand what it was then, but now that I've seen Kate talk about her gentleman and the same expression appear on her face, I think I know what it is. I suppose that it is love. It's such an amusing expression, isn't it? Head tilted at an odd angle and eyes wide and cheeks red- if most people didn't consider it a serious subject, I think I would find it rather comical.
As Always,
Frank