21 June, 1871

My Darling Beloved,

I write this letter to you now to beg forgiveness for the misunderstanding that has occurred between us. You must understand how much I truly love you. It was never my intention to hurt you, and that I did I am very sorry. You were not the cause of my harsh words the other night; you merely had the misfortune to receive the brunt of my anger and frustration.

Allow me to explain, darling. My brother, as I'm sure you have noticed, has been spending a great deal more time about the Opera House than he should. It happens that, on the morning of the day which our unfortunate exchange occurred, I discovered the reason for my brother's peculiar change in behavior. It seems that he fancies himself in love with young Miss DaaƩ, who happens to be a childhood acquaintance of his.

This may seem like no explanation for the way I acted, but you must understand the way things are. For me to take up with you, at my age and stature, is not thought of in any unfavorable way; indeed, it is considered rather advantageous to all parties involved. However, my brother's situation is a different matter altogether. For a handsome young man of title with so much life ahead of him to take up with a chorus girl with serious consideration of marriage (which Raoul has professed to) is simply not allowable.

I do not want you to find me calloused or cruel for lashing out against you. I was simply overwrought with anger toward my brother. He has ignored all my advice and will not listen to my attempts to reason with him. I cannot allow his fecklessness to potentially ruin our family, and therefore must keep him in check.

I apologize profusely for whatever pain I have caused you, and pray you will forgive my rash behavior. Ever yours, etc.

Comte Philippe de Chagny