Dearest Anna,

And here I thought gallantry was a virtue... But if my selflessness isn't appreciated than perhaps this is a good opportunity for me to give selfishness a try, especially if I am to unjustly remain here with nothing better to do. So, in the spirit of my newfound selfishness, I will dare to say that I am, in fact, as mysterious as Sherlock Holmes and as charming as Rudolph Valentino. And if that's not indulging one's ego then I don't know what is.

I can only say that it takes a fool to marry a fool. So if my wife is a fool then I was the fool who fell for her in the first place. But I do, however, have some news in the conquering underdogs department. Mr. Murray has sent word saying that he believes we can make a case. He refused to put it in writing in case anyone should read it but has said that he will be by to visit shortly. Perhaps he has found some good news? So, as usual my dear, you were right.

You misunderstand, I never for a moment believed you to pretend as if life owed you anything - I was simply speaking from experience. Forgive me if I have succeeded in offending you, for it was never my intent. You can't know what exactly I think of you but know that it is not of the world, but that you are beyond. You may not let on as much as I see in you, but I know you are stronger than any storm and braver than any fear. And, though you may not be a woman of the real world, I can't pretend to be too sad to say that that makes you mine and mine alone. So alas, Mr. Bates, it seems that we are doomed to forever be stuck with each other. So let us make the very best of it.

Of course every butler has their favorites, and it's not as if Mr. Carson has ever said otherwise - although why it is Lady Mary of all people I couldn't tell you. But I suppose he has worked at the Abbey practically since before he could walk, so he would know her better than anyone under that roof. She doesn't deserve him - your Lady Mary. Not his kindness or his wisdom, and I pity Mr. Carson for having become so attatched her because I doubt he'll get away that easy even if he wanted to.

I appreciate the thought my darling, but you and I both know that my secret will not remain secret with you for much longer. But I suppose even I must admit that it is too tempting to resist sharing with just a few people. Still, I bear no shame in admitting my disappointment over what we missed out on. Lord knows that I am no less sorry than you that we did it when we had the chance, but it would have been nice to afford something of a cake or even a white dress for you to wear. I just hope that we'll have saved enough money to give our children the wedding we never had someday. And if you're feeling claustrophobic at the mere thought of a room full of wedding guests than you can only imagine the nightmare I'm living behind these too-close bars. I feel so much like a caged animal at times that I almost forget I'm human.

Have you cracked the code yet as to who our mystery groomsman is? I hope it's Mr. Branson anyway; the life he has married into is a very lonely one, and I can't imagine the family is making the transition easy for him. But then, I suppose much can be said the same of him with his strong opinions and even stronger political interests. I'd like to witness him give them a run for their money... Lady Sybil really knows just how to pick them doesn't she? Still, I do hope he and Mr. Matthew are able to make friends. Because they are two kinds of outsiders if ever I saw some, and you can never be too lonely that you're past friendship can you?

How is the new footeman working out? Has he settled in? Is his ability to serve dinner and answer the door up to the mark? No doubt a red-faced Mr. Carson feels inconvenienced for having to train up young hobble-de-hoys at a time like this. Why is it that I miss all the fun? You'll have to provide a very vivid description of all the hustle and bustle at the Abbey for me so that it feels I haven't missed a thing.

If I spoke truly of how I fare, then I would be doing a terrible job of trying to alter the mood of my letters for your weekly entertainment. But I will say that I am fine for the moment. And so far neither I nor my cellmate have caused any trouble for one another other than the few menacing - and probably muderous - glances we've exchanged since meeting. Not to worry though, I'm sure it's under control.

I should have known that you weren't being faithful to me, and why should you be when you're as pretty as you are? So come on then, who are the lucky admireres who get the chance to gaze upon your beauty and grace and hold you on their arm? Perhaps I'll pay them a visit when I'm out of here; I have a feeling that we'll get on just fine...

Of course I always look forward to your visits whenever you can make them. But don't abandon Lady Mary and Mrs. Hughes at a time like this, not when they need you the most and most certainly not on my account. I'm serious, if I'm forced to refuse your visits just to keep you away until the rush of the wedding is over then I will. I'm not going anywhere am I? So I assure you that I can wait my turn.

I remain yours truthfully,

-John

P.S. I hope that I managed to be the highlight of your week yet again. God knows that's all I hope for.

Thank you to silly-beggar, (love the username by the way;), Lourdes, Lewes, TheLadyAndTheLawyer, and Jameslover for the reviews! Hope you liked this chapter and don't forget to review!

- birdywings