Twenty Three

My dearest Cassandra,

I declare there is nothing like staying at home for real comfort. And that comfort is all the greater when the home is finally your own. You of course know I had never considered myself one for daydreaming about my future household like many a young girl. Yet I find myself quite contented. I wake most mornings still delighted to find myself a married woman and wonder often how I came to be so lucky.

Since we have been home from our travels Tom and I have endeavored to arrange a new routine for the both of us. I have had ample time for my writing while he is at practice, and I plan to continue on in this way. First Impressions, while mostly complete, has taken a back seat to a new story I hope to send out for publication soon. Though Tom disagrees, I have decided that if I do manage to publish, it will be anonymously.

I still have not forgotten the words Mrs. Radcliffe spoke to me on that fateful day. I know Tom fancies himself far more evolved than our general society but I plan to take things cautiously.

We had a lovely dinner last night with our dear brother Henry and his bride. Both asked after you more than once. I assured them I would continue to beg you for your presence here in town as soon as you are able. Why you feel the need to stay with mother and father I will never know. I can only imagine how happy they would be, to be as close to alone as George's condition will allow them. My invitations will continue to come so consider yourself forewarned.

Tom has just returned and I must cut this missive short. He always looks so surprised to still see me here when he returns each night. Silly man.

Give my love to everyone.

Your affectionate sister,

Jane LeFroy

AN: I just want to take a moment to thank everyone who took the time to read this little fiction. And a special thank you to the readers who actually followed along from the beginning, even though it took me forever to complete. I hope you all found some enjoyment in it.