E M T

November 7, 1918

Hope Valley

Mon Cher Lucas,

I am so excited for our trip tomorrow and so is Jack. I think he feels all the excitement emanating from me and of course I am letting him know all the wonderful things that you have planned for us. I can't wait for this trip with my two men

This has been another wonderful week. The horseback ride before school the other day was exhilarating. The air was so fresh and the day so beautifully clear. It is getting colder these days as we head toward winter, but that just means that I have an excuse to share your warmth when you hold me in your arms as we take our break at our bridge. Our bridge is such a special place; I will never forget the day of our first "real date". You were so sweet when you came to my door that morning to ask if I would ride with you. You were so excited that this day had finally arrived that I could not resist even though, as you know, I needed to prepare for the graduation. I loved that ride so much; to laugh with you as we rode had me just bursting with the wonder of being alive. As we paused for a while on the bridge, I felt the connection that I always have felt with you. The sense that you understand me like no one ever has. You have been my friend and confidant and I know that you have thought of my happiness first for so long now. I hope to return that gift to you now as well. I find that a heart has no boundaries to how much love can fill it. My love for my son has come first since I knew he was to be. But that doesn't mean that I can't love you with equal measure. My love for you both is boundless.

On a lighter note, Jack and I enjoyed dinner at Abigail's last evening. It was lovely to dine out, but nice to be away from the saloon this time so you could be away from your responsibilities for just a little while. Jack enjoyed all the attention he got from some of the diners. He definitely loves his Uncle Bill who makes him his favorite macaroni with cheese. Bill will have to share the recipe with Gustave. I know this will be an insult to his grand cuisine, but little boys like what they like. Surely Gustave can add his own flair in moderation. Jack does love Gustave's sweet treats especially his tea treats, the French macarons and Italian macaroons are both favorites.

I know we haven't had too much time to ourselves to discuss our future plans, but perhaps even with Jack with us we might be able to find time to discuss this while we are on our trip. I think you know how much I want for us to have clarity on our future or at least the next major steps. And I know that you want this too.

I am going to hand this note to you when you leave this evening after an early dinner with Jack and me. There won't be a chance to get it to you by post before we leave.

Know that I love you and I look forward to each and every day that I am able to spend time with you. I feel truly blessed.

Yours always,

Elizabeth.