Beginning, Previous Section, Section III

Part 5

Posted on 2011-05-07

LETTER FROM COLONEL BRANDON TO ELIZA WILLIAMS
Tuesday, April 17, 1798
Cleveland

My dear Eliza,

I hope you and the child are well. We have had some terrible days at Cleveland – Miss Marianne Dashwood was struck by illness and for a while we feared for the worst, but thankfully she has since recovered. Her poor sister, as you can imagine, was much afflicted and nursed her constantly, but now can rest without worries.

Miss Dashwood sends her love to you and Kit and I shall be very glad to confide in you, my dear, the knowledge that we do not expect Miss D. to retain her name for long. When matters are finally settled – and they shall be soon – I shall write to you again so you can share our joy.

Yours, &c., &c.,
Christopher B.

ELINOR'S DIARY
Wednesday, April 18, 1798
Cleveland

Yesterday after tea I asked Christopher to accompany me on a walk across the grounds, for it had been many days since I left the house. Mama (who was prevailed upon to come down as Marianne slept) and Mrs. Jennings seemed more than pleased by this turn of events and afforded us as much privacy as I could have wished.

After complying with all the well-meaning advice stirred by fears not yet forgotten and ensuring that we were both completely protected against the possibility of catching a chill, we started along the marked paths. I did not know how to begin what was sure to be a painful conversation and remained silent for a long while. He asked me then if I still held any anxiety regarding my sister, a point in which I could satisfy him. No, it was not Marianne's situation which concerned me, though the matter was most intimately connected to her.

I related to him all that had passed then: Willoughby's visit, his strange behavior, his attempts to gain forgiveness which I could not grant. That Christopher was grieved and pained by my account I could clearly see, but after I finished he remained silent for a long time. Finally, he spoke in a low voice in which I could feel his barely suppressed anger: "My opinion of the man you are acquainted with; that he had the presumption to importune you at such a time with no other view but to assuage his own guilty conscience can do nothing but bring it even lower in my estimation, though I had not believed it possible." And in a much gentler tone, he added, "I am, however, gratified that your principles guided you so wisely in this, Elinor, as they always have and that you felt you could share all that has happened with me. Your trust is more precious to me than I can say."

"From you, dear Christopher," I replied, "I can have no secrets. My heart must be as open to you as yours has been to me."

The effect of these words was immediate, for the frown was gone from his face and the sparkle returned to his eyes. He took my hand in his, but did not squeeze or kiss it as he had done once. Instead he looked into my eyes and said, full of tenderness and emotion: "I did not think I could open my heart again – I did not think I could feel such happiness and love so much until I met you."

His words moved me, but I could do nothing then but blush and cast my eyes to the ground. He would not stand for it, for he gently touched my chin with his free hand and lifted it towards him and before I could tell myself to start breathing once more, came even closer and kissed me softly on the lips.

My legs shook; my heart beat wildly. I could feel his warmth and the smell of sandalwood always seems to linger around him. I did not think a more perfect moment could exist until he took a step back, kneeled in front of me without letting go of my hand and asked: "Dearest Elinor, will you marry me?"

At that moment all that I had felt in the past few days – my anxiety regarding Marianne, my anger towards Willoughby, my boundless love for the man at my feet – seemed to conspire against me, for I burst into tears in a manner I cannot remember having ever done before. Christopher did not seem distressed at this display, but simply rose from the ground and embraced me, keeping me in his arms until I was mistress of myself and my sobbed litany of "yes, yes, yes" became a composed, yet still fervent answer to his proposal.

As we walked towards the house, Christopher told me that my mother had already granted him her permission on the endless, painful ride to Cleveland and that she had been much comforted in the knowledge of our affection towards each other. He intended to seek her out on the morrow and announce that all was now certain, though he would defer specific plans until we were back at Barton. We agreed that it would be best not to let the news be known before we had returned home and that all would have to wait until Marianne was recuperated enough to receive the announcement with some composure. I reassured him that I was certain she could not be anything but happy for us, but said that the topic of a wedding and the endless congratulations and engagements that would be sure to follow a proper announcement would be too much for her right now. We agreed then that once Marianne was told our plans could be finalized and we expected that the ceremony could take place in two or three months at most.

We considered that as my mother would be aware of all (and, though we did not mention it, as Sir John was still in London and thus not checking through our correspondence) letters could be exchanged without a hint of impropriety. This was a great comfort to us, for Christopher said that business at Delaford and all the necessary arrangements for the arrival of a mistress of the house would mean that he would have to be detained in Dorsetshire for some weeks after he had safely returned us to Barton.

As I went to bed that evening after we parted in the hall, all I could think of was the pressure of his lips against mine.

LETTER FROM JOHN DASHWOOD TO ELINOR DASHWOOD
Friday, 20 April, 1798
Harley Street

Dear Elinor,

I was very glad indeed to read your news of Marianne's return to health. It is a pity that her illness most probably means that her bloom shall never return – for she was once a very pretty girl – but I am sure that if one takes into account other considerations, it does not signify much. I see the Colonel remains with you and went to the trouble of fetching your mother – that is a good sign. I am sure, dear sister, that soon there will be news to be shared which cannot but please all your friends and family. In expectation of them, I remain

Your brother,
John D.

LETTER FROM COLONEL BRANDON TO ELINOR DASHWOOD [DELIVERED IN PERSON]
Tuesday, April 24, 1798
Cleveland

Dearest Elinor,

How silly I feel, how much like a schoolboy, to deliver this letter into your hands before we are out of each other's sight! But the demands of the road and the distance that shall soon be between us will mean that it will be many days before news of you can reach me and I wished you to have a constant reminder of me until then. Perhaps in the future you shall have a sketch drawn by your own talented hand to assuage your longing for my company, as I hope to have one of you to assuage mine.

Dearest Elinor, shall I tell you how blissfully happy I feel? Shall I tell you how grateful I am to have found you, how the knowledge of your love has restored my spirits to cheerfulness and consoled me from every past affliction? Shall I tell you how I miss the feeling of your hand upon my skin and the soft pressure of your lips upon mine? How sentimental you shall find me! You, who are always so sensible, so rational, so composed, might well wonder at the ramblings of a man violently in love. But I know your heart, dearest Elinor, as you know mine and though you govern your feelings with prudence, they run with ardor under your skin. I know I shall not frighten you with the words I write. You are in every way my equal and capable of returning every feeling just as strongly.

I shall count the hours until we meet again and hope that the day when you will face the road to Delaford with me is not too distant. Until then, I shall keep you in my thoughts during the day and in my dreams during the night.

I am, your most devoted,
Christopher

LETTER FROM COLONEL BRANDON TO HIS SISTER, MRS HAYWORTH
Wednesday, April 25, 1798
The Mansion-House at Delaford

My dearest Emma,

I have arrived home but a few moments ago, but could not wait a moment longer before writing to you. My dear, dear sister I have the best of news to share with you. It is now all settled – Miss Elinor Dashwood is to be my wife.

I know, dear sister, that your happiness on my behalf can only be eclipsed by own. So wise you were, to see before I did, where my heart was leading me! You can now tease me as much as you choose – I shall take it with as much as grace and good humor as only a man so much in love can.

We had, for some weeks, had matters more or less decided between us, though no words were exchanged, and I merely wanted to speak to Mrs. Dashwood in person to make things finally settled. On our removal from London to Somerset on the way to Devoshire, however, Miss Marianne fell ill and all plans, accordingly, came to a halt. For many days we were very alarmed and for some hours we feared the worst. I rode to Barton with all speed to fetch Mrs. Dashwood to her daughter's side and was rewarded on our return with the knowledge that Marianne lived and would make a full recovery. As her health improved, so did our spirits and I was soon able to make a proper proposal which was joyfully accepted by Elinor.

We are to be married at Barton sometime in June or July. Our plans are not yet fixed because we judged it best to wait before making the announcement to the world at large. Marianne is still in a fragile state and we fear that the effusion of visits, congratulations and parties that always follow an engagement would at this point be too much for her. I could not remain silent to you and Eliza, who are part of my family and so close to my heart, but the rest of the world has yet to know my joy.

I know it would not be possible to come for a visit now, my dear, but as soon as my brother Hayworth's business and the political situation allows it, I would be immensely pleased to welcome you to Delaford and introduce you to my dear Elinor, for I am sure you shall be great friends. While I shall make no promises, I do not think it unlikely that we might eventually venture to the continent to enjoy your hospitality.

I must close, for there is much business to be conducted if I am to return to my Elinor's side in three weeks. Sending my best love to you and the children and hoping to hear from you soon, I am,

Your deliriously happy brother,
Christopher B.

LETTER FROM COLONEL BRANDON TO ELIZA WILLIAMS
Wednesday, April 25, 1798
The Mansion-House at Delaford

Dear Eliza,

I have returned to Delaford for some weeks to resolve unavoidable business. I shall be quite happy to see you and Kit now that I am so near, especially since I should dearly like to celebrate my happiness with you in person. I am sure you have guessed of what I speak: things are now settled and Miss Elinor Dashwood is to be my wife. No official announcement has been made yet on account of her sister's still delicate health, but our preparations have already started.

I will not tire you with an account of my dear Elinor's virtues, for I am sure I will do them more justice in person. I shall see you sometime next week, though I am afraid pressing estate matters will not allow me to precise a date more clearly.

Yours, &c., &c.
Christopher Brandon

LETTER FROM ELINOR DASHWOOD TO COLONEL BRANDON
Friday, April 27, 1798
Barton Cottage

Dear Christopher,

We arrived last night at Barton after a pleasant journey. I am glad to report that far from causing a setback, the journey seems to have done Marianne some good – her spirits are calmer than I have seen them in weeks. The Careys returned Margaret to us this morning and now the only element missing from our family party is you.

I hope you have had a pleasant journey to Delaford. I do not know if you will have set already to Bincombe when you read this, but if not do send Eliza and Kit my love when you see them.

Mama is now writing to you herself to thank you for the carriage and ask you to come to us as soon as you can. I hope your business can be concluded without unexpected problems and that you can be here in three weeks, but though I do want to see you as soon as may be, I know you have responsibilities that you cannot possibly evade. Speaking of Delaford, I should like to ask you once more not to make any significant changes to it simply because it is to receive a mistress – I am sure the house is perfect as it is and there's no need to go on such needless expenses for my sake.

I look at what I have written and cannot account for it. Such sensible information imparted; such commonplace inquiries made! Is this how am I to answer the beautiful letter you have given me and from which I have yet to be separated? It cannot be – I cannot repay your candidness with reticence. You have laid your feelings at my feet and I must lay mine at yours.

Dearest Christopher, I miss you. I miss our conversations, the soothing silences in your presence. I miss the smiles and laughter that are so much more frequent now and the knowledge that I am in part responsible for them. I miss the warmth of your hand against mine, the smell of sandalwood I feel when you are close to me. I miss your kisses and your touch I miss other things, big and small, which I cannot yet commit to paper, restricted as I am by a flaming blush and trembling hands. But I shall try, dearest, for your sake, for you must know that

I am, now and forever,
Yours,
Elinor

LETTER FROM MRS DASHWOOD TO COLONEL BRANDON
Friday, April 27, 1798
Barton Cottage

My dear Colonel,

I hope you have had a pleasant journey to Delaford. We arrived at Barton yesterday after a comfortable two days journey and I should like to take the opportunity to thank you once more for ensuring our comfort. The girls are all well – Margaret rejoices in having us all together once more, Marianne's strength has grown and I have seldom seen dear Elinor as happy as she was when she perused your letter, which she did frequently.

I know, of course, that business must detain you in Dorsetshire for the moment, but I press you, dear sir, most affectionately, to come to us as soon as you can. Elinor wishes it above everything, I know, but the younger girls and I are no less eager. Such a sincere, dear friend as you are to us all should always be welcome here – now that you are a part of our family this welcome is doubly extended.

In the hope of seeing you soon,
I am, &c., &c.,
Louisa Dashwood

LETTER FROM ELIZA WILLIAMS TO COLONEL BRANDON [LATER FORWARDED TO ELINOR DASHWOOD]
Friday, April 27, 1798
Bincombe, Dorsetshire

My dear Uncle Christopher,

How happy I was in receiving your last! I am very moved that you have confided in me, and wish you the deepest joy, for there is no one so deserving of happiness as you are. You and Miss Dashwood shall be most happy indeed, for she is so sensible and kind (her kindness to me and the likeness of you drawn by her own hand I can never think of without endless gratitude) and you are so good and true. If you should think it proper, please send her my warmest congratulations.

How kind you are, in delaying your own plans, for the sake of the health of Miss Dashwood's sister! I am sure she must appreciate the thoughtfulness of her sister and look forward to gaining such a brother as you.

Do come whenever you can – Kit and I shall be delighted to see you and hear as much as you'd like to tell us about dear Miss Dashwood.

I am, &c., &c.,
Eliza Williams

LETTER FROM MRS HAYWORTH TO COLONEL BRANDON [LATER FORWARDED DO ELINOR DASHWOOD]
Saturday, April 28, 1798
Place de la Mirande, Avignon

My dear Christopher,

Well done! How delighted I was in reading your letter and seeing your words tinted with such happiness and gayness. Dear Christopher, you were so sad for so long that to perceive that your spirits have been raised to cheerfulness is a balm to my heart.

I shall not tease you too much, dearest, for I know what it is to come to love when one expected one's heart to be closed. It is a wondrous feeling, but also a scary one and I can only praise your bravery in following your heart. I shall not ask you if your Miss Elinor deserves you, for in rereading your letters, her sense, her goodness and her attachment to you are clear to me. I wish you both every imaginable happiness. Dark clouds will come, as they must, but I am sure you shall weather any storm in your path.

I wish more than anything to meet my new sister, but I do not think we can come to England soon. Do come, however, to see us as soon as you can – things are now quite stable and a wedding tour in the continent shall delight you both, I am sure.

William and the children send their sincere congratulations, but I am afraid demand too much of my time for me to continue for now. I shall then bid you adieu and hope to see you soon.

Sending you my best love &c.,
Your sister,
Emma H.

LETTER FROM COLONEL BRANDON TO ELINOR DASHWOOD
Monday, April 30, 1798
The Mansion-House at Delaford

Dearest Elinor,

I had a most pleasant journey, marred solely by the fact that it was quite solitary. I am, however, consoled by the fact that few of my journeys from now on shall be undertaken alone. I hope you and your family remain well. Please send my regards to your mother and the enclosed sheet music to Marianne – I believe she will enjoy it very much. I have also enclosed, dearest, the letters I have received from my sister and Eliza following my announcement, as I believe you would like to peruse them. They are both, as you will see, extremely happy for us and praise you as much as I could wish.

Here at Delaford things are quite well. The staff and tenants seem very pleased at the prospect of a mistress and have asked me to forward their well wishes to you. At your request, no needless expenses have been taken, but I have had some rooms aired and furniture shifted. Some changes must take place – the house is in good repair but quite old-fashioned in places – but I believe it best that they should take place under your direction. This shall be your home and it should reflect your touch. The Mistress's rooms are in particular need of change, but I am sure you shall have no trouble sharing mine while renovations take place.

Dearest Elinor, now that the minutiae of life have been accounted for, I come to a point of the greatest importance. I cannot tell you how precious your letter was to me or how many times I have perused it since receiving it. And yet I cannot but wonder if in writing it you did not force confidences you were not yet ready to commit to paper for the sake of being as frank as I was. Do not force yourself, dear Elinor, to act in a way you are not comfortable with. If you are not yet comfortable in laying your feelings on paper as openly as I have laid mine, do not so because you feel obliged to return my ardor with your own. Dearest, of the strength of your feelings I have no doubt – your heart I know as well as I know my own. You do not need to match every declaration with one of your own; I do not need words to reassure me of your love. It was my dear, self-possessed Elinor who conquered my heart; I do not expect, nor wish her to change.

(Yet if in the in the secrecy of a lover's letter or in the darkness of her marital rooms she should wish to share with me the passion that is contained in the privacy of her thoughts, I should find myself most eager to drink in her every word)

In ever growing anticipation of seeing you once more I am,
Yours,
Christopher

ELINOR'S DIARY
Monday, April 30, 1798
Barton Cottage

The weather was finally warm enough today that I could venture with Marianne out of the house. Her spirits had remained high since returning home (though, of course, still not what they once were) and I confess to have felt apprehensive that painful memories would intrude. Memories did come, but I am proud to say that my sister would not let herself drown in despair once more. She remained self-composed and was able to open herself to me, a fact I was most grateful for. In sharing her thoughts and feelings, I think she was able to reach a greater peace.

Her meditations since her illness have opened her to a reflection of her own character and conduct. She was very contrite for her behavior towards those who only wished her well and was very sorry to have caused us pain. I could not brush away her mistakes – for she did injure, though without malice, those who love her – but I could soothe her, praise her contrition and support the changes that she is determined to carry through.

She told me she needed but one thing to be at ease – the knowledge of Willoughby not always having deceived her. In that I could help and told her of W's visit and my belief that he had indeed been sincerely attached to her or at least as sincerely attached as a man such as him can be. She could not, I am glad to say, condone his conduct and did recognize that her happiness was never his first concern as it should have been to a man truly in love. She did, however, seem glad to be able to consider him fickle instead of deliberate cruel from the start when it came to his conduct towards herself.

At Marianne's request I told Mama all that had happened. Nothing could restore Willoughby to what he once was in her eyes, but she felt sorry for him and would go as far as to wish him happy.

In face of what has happened today I feel confident that I shall be able to approach Marianne with my news soon. Talking of all that has passed with Edward shall give her some discomfort, but I hope that her happiness for me shall overcome all the disappointment she felt in learning that Edward was never to be her brother.

Marianne shall have no cause to repine the brother she shall have, I am sure. I expect a letter from Christopher any day now and cannot help but wonder how he is. I am also, I confess, quite anxious to see how he will respond to my letter. I count the days until he is here with me, for they cannot come soon enough.

LETTER FROM ELINOR DASHWOOD TO COLONEL BRANDON
Tuesday, May 1, 1798
Barton Cottage

Dearest Christopher,

I have just received your last and must answer it without delay. I shall not start with commonplace remarks, but say only this: you are right that it is still hard for me to commit certain words and feelings to paper and you are also right in believing that simply because I find it hard to express them does not mean I feel them less. Indeed, I do not think it possible that I could feel them more. Your "dear, self-possessed Elinor" shall not change, but simply learn to share what she has long kept hidden. It may take some time, but I have no doubt of your patience and willingness to guide me through this.

I shall be happy in our home, dear Christopher, simply because it is ours. Some changes might perhaps be necessary, but I am sure they can be dealt with in due time. Any arrangements in the mean time will prove more than satisfactory, I am sure.

I thank you kindly for the letters you forwarded to me – I was delighted in reading them. I should me most glad to meet all of your family and in this I also include Eliza and Kit.

On my side of the family all is well. Marianne improves daily and I have been able to approach a certain subject without causing her undue pain. I should like her to regain a bit more of her strength, but I should think that in a week or so she shall be able to receive our news with all the gladness that it is due to them. After that, all that will be needed is your presence for the banns to be read and the date to be set. In expectation of this most happy of events, I remain,

Ever Yours,
Elinor

LETTER FROM ELINOR DASHWOOD TO ELIZA WILLIAMS
Tuesday, May 1, 1798
Barton Cottage

Dear Eliza,

I do hope you shall excuse the liberty of my writing to you and addressing you in such a familiar manner, but we are, after all, to be family and should treat each other as such.

The Colonel took the liberty of sending to me your congratulatory letter and I was much moved by your well wishes. As you seem to have learned by now as much about me from the Colonel as I have learned about you, I think the next logical step would be for us to meet in person and learn things directly from each other. It would thus please me greatly if you and Kit were to be my first visitors as a married woman. I know your work with Mrs. Ward keeps you much occupied, but I should be very grateful if you could spare some weeks in August to come and see us. I look forward to meeting you at last and seeing your beautiful boy.

Yours in friendship,
Elinor Dashwood

LETTER FROM MRS DASHWOOD TO COLONEL BRANDON
Wednesday, May, 2, 1798
Barton Cottage

My dear Colonel,

I hope you remain in good health. The weather in Devonshire has been increasingly warm these past few days and spring seems to have reached its apex.

Marianne has asked me to thank you for the music you sent her, for she liked it very much and has been playing endlessly. Her spirits rise everyday and soon, I am sure, shall be prepared for the happy hustle and bustle which shall result from a very happy occasion we all are anxious for.

Dear sir, your room at the Cottage is ready and waits only your own presence. We wait most eagerly for you coming to us.

I am, &c., &c.,
Louisa Dashwood

LETTER FROM LUCY FERRARS TO EDWARD FERRARS
Friday, 4 May, 1798
New London Inn, Exeter

"Dear Sir,
Being very sure I have long lost your affections, I have thought myself at liberty to bestow my own on another, and have no doubt of being as happy with him as I once used to think I might be with you; but I scorn to accept a hand while the heart was another's. Sincerely wish you happy in your choice, and it shall not be my fault if we are not always good friends, as our near relationship now makes proper. I can safely say I owe you no ill-will, and am sure you will be too generous to do us any ill offices. Your brother has gained my affections entirely, and as we could not live without one another, we are just returned from the altar, and are now on our way to Dawlish for a few weeks, which place your dear brother has great curiosity to see, but thought I would first trouble you with these few lines, and shall always remain,
Your sincere well-wisher, friend, and sister,
Lucy Ferrars
"I have burnt all your letters, and will return your picture the first opportunity. Please to destroy my scrawls--but the ring with my hair you are very welcome to keep."

LETTER FROM COLONEL BRANDON TO ELINOR DASHWOOD
Saturday, May 5, 1798
The Mansion-House at Delaford

My dear Elinor,

As a response to your last I shall simply say, dearest, that we understand each other very well as always and that I am confident that we shall only learn more about each other as time goes by. The process of learning can be as rewarding as the knowledge itself and I look very much forward to it.

I am very glad to hear that your sister improves. I shall not say that she shall ever forget all that she has gone through or be unchanged by it. I shall, however, reassure you that past sorrows may give way to future happiness and that despite whatever beliefs she might have professed in the past I do sincerely believe your sister will come to love again.

I saw Eliza on Thursday and she had just received your letter. I hope I do not upset you when I tell you that I found the dear girl in tears, for they were tears of happiness. She was much overcome for what she termed your "boundless kindness," but did not know how to respond, for she felt that while she could not offend you for the world, she also could not accept your invitation because of her status. I told her you were right in every regard in calling her family and that family is always welcome no matter what. The risk of offending us both seemed to have overcome her reticence, for she accepted to come to us in the beginning of August.

Here I must thank you most heartily for the way you have acted. To show such compassion and kindness to Eliza, knowing her story as you do, is to show true Christian charity. If you think it proper dear, I should like to extend the invitation for your mother and sisters to come to us at the same time. Seeing his child may discomfit Marianne, but as you said so properly, we are a family and must thus remain together.

Business at Delaford has been keeping me quite busy, I am afraid, which means I cannot set out to Devon until the 15th. Expect me then on the following Thursday – I should arrive early enough to enable us to go talk to the rector at Barton so that the banns can be read the following Sunday. Shall the 11th of June be too soon for you? I know certain arrangements are expected when it comes to a trousseau – but here I shall ask you, dearest, not to go into needless expenses. The house shall be ready to receive you whenever you wish it and I confess that I fervently wish that the wedding will take place as soon as possible.

Until I see you again, I remain,
Yours,
Christopher

LETTER FROM ELINOR DASHWOOD TO COLONEL BRANDON
Sunday, May 6, 1798
Barton Cottage

Dearest Christopher,

As much as I would like to see you today if possible, I understand you have responsibilities that cannot be postponed even for the pleasure of my company. I am counting the days until you come to me and have tried to keep myself as busy as possible so that they shall pass faster.

I have had some news of our future neighbors. On Friday Thomas went to Exeter and met Lucy Ferrars outside the New London Inn. She and Mr. Ferrars had come straight from town after getting married, it seems, and still had a little way to go – to her family near Plymouth, I presume. I was a bit surprised in not hearing anything from our friends in town or my brother, but I expect some letters in the next few days detailing the event. I confess that I am also wondering at Mr. Ferrar's silence regarding the parsonage, but I am also sure he shall write to you soon so all can be settled.

Marianne did not take the news very well, I am afraid. I tried to let her know I was not in the least bothered by it and perhaps even introduce the subject of my own marital prospects, but she would not hear of it – in her mind I am simply exerting my usual self control and suffering in silence. I shall try to raise the subject again in a day or two, for I should wish her to know all before you arrive.

Mama and I have discussed the matter and have determined that the 11th will suit perfectly. I shall have two or three new dresses, but a day trip to Exeter can be arranged without much trouble and there's plenty of time to see that everything is settled. Do not worry about needless expenses, for I have managed to curb Mama's well meaning but misguided desire to fit me with an entire new wardrobe in the latest fashions.

Speaking of Mama, she was delighted in agreeing to come to us in August for a long visit. I am glad we shall have a month or so to ourselves after the wedding, for I am afraid these shall not be our only visitors – after all she has done for my sister and the kindness she has show to us all, I think it only right that we should ask Mrs. Jennings to come to us for Michaelmas.

I will only add, dearest, that I miss you most heartily. Last night I dreamed of the evening we walked in Cleveland and woke with such a longing for you I can hardly describe. Until I can feel again your warm hand on mine once more, I remain,

Ever Yours,
Elinor

EXPRESS FROM ELINOR DASHWOOD TO COLONEL BRANDON
Wednesday, May 9, 1798
Barton Cottage

Dearest Christopher,

Be not alarmed in receiving this, for we are all well. Something of importance has happened, however, and I thought it best that you learned of it as soon as may be.

I was determined that my conversation with Marianne would take place today and accordingly asked her to take a walk with me so we could have some privacy. Before we could set off, however, a gentleman in horseback approached the gate. For a moment my heart leaped, for I imagined it must be you, though I knew we expected you a week from now. I composed myself in a moment and, on further observing the gentleman, it looked to me as if it was Edward Ferrars. Again this seemed impossible, but this time my observation was just – Edward Ferrars it was.

We were all quite awkward, him most of all. Marianne retreated from sight and Meg, not knowing what to do, remained distant and silent. Mama and I tried to make him at ease, welcoming him and wishing him joy, but every word we uttered only appeared to make him more uncomfortable. As we set down, Mama inquired after Mrs.'s Ferrars health; he quickly replied she was well and was silent once more.

I could not understand why he had come. If he did feel himself obliged by bonds of friendship to maintain his acquaintance with us, a letter would have answered just as well – better indeed for there would be less awkwardness. If he still, despite his status as a married man, retained some feelings for me and believed me to retain some for him – what could he expect by coming but to cause us both pain? I reasoned, however, that he had not always thought through his actions and that I would only try to be as polite possible.

I inquired then if he had left Mrs. Ferrars at Longstaple. He was clearly surprised at the question and replied that his mother was in town. I then clarified that I meant Mrs. Edward Ferrars – for surely she must be mentioned, even to us? He then hesitatingly asked if I meant to inquire after Mrs. Robert Ferrars.

The astonishment these words caused in us all! In a very agitated manner he confirmed that his brother had married Lucy Steele last week and said they were now at Dawlish. The silence after these words stretched for a long time and when I was finally determined to break it, Edward, still in a state of profound agitation, quit the room without a word.

In these moments he had been with us since telling us his astounding news, I had been contemplating a new reason for his coming to Barton. I had reason to suspect it had been for my sake after all, but with a very different object in mind than that which I had first suspected. I thought it best then to lay the entire truth before him. Accordingly, after exchanging some whispered words with Mama, I left the cottage and went after him.

We talked for about half an hour before he left Barton for good, for he would not listen to my mother's entreaties for him to stay at least for the evening. What we talked of you can well imagine – he had come indeed to assure me of his affections. He laid down his entire history with Lucy Steele before me, tried to justify all his actions, seemed to lack just a little encouragement to make a definite declaration and looked almost determined to go on even without it.

I could not let this happen, for I knew it would only lead to more pain. I was very direct and asked whether he had come to inquire after my affections. I did not let him go on more than was needed for me to ensure that he had indeed come for that purpose. Prefacing that I had no wish to pain him, but could be nothing but sincere, I laid down the entire truth before him. I told him that he had once indeed held my affections, but that his conduct towards me had been such as to alter my opinion of him and the sentiments I held towards him. I added that while I still though well of him, I could no longer think of him as anything but a friend. I did hesitate a bit before the last part of my speech, for I knew this would be the most painful thing of all, but I thought it best that he learned of all from me. Thus, I told him that my affections were now otherwise engaged and that I was promised to another.

He remained silent through my entire speech; though I noticed he grew paler and paler as it went on. He asked me then if you were the man to be congratulated for winning my hand and, after I confirmed it, wished us joy. We went back to the Cottage in silence and there Edward, more in control of himself than in any other moment during his visit, refused Mama's entreaties for staying longer and left. I was sorry to have pained him, but could not be sorry to see him go – I had rarely experienced such uncomfortable moments as those I had passed by his side this afternoon.

The ordeal of the day was not yet over, however. After Edward took leave of us all, Marianne, as you can well imagine, was all astonishment. She had been expecting us to return engaged, to have the pleasure of calling Edward brother and that had clearly not happened. I told Mama briefly what had happened and, asking her to explain it all to Meg, who was growing more confused by the minute, took Marianne outside and told her everything.

I am afraid that Marianne did not take it very well at first – she was at turns skeptic and astonished and, it pains me to add, put into question the veracity of my feelings for you. I did manage to convince her at length that I was very determined in my choice and no one could make me happier than you. Meg, I am glad to say, took the news with much more ease and is very much looking forward to the wedding.

Something good did come out of all of this: there is no more need for concealment – we shall be able to proceed just as we wished. I shall write to my brother with the news and – considering her kindness to me and my sister while we were under her protection – should also like to address Mrs. Jennings myself. I should be most obliged if you could find the time to inform the Palmers and Middletons of our news, for they do deserve our utmost consideration.

In the expectation of seeing you soon, I remain,
Ever Yours,
Elinor

ELINOR'S DIARY
Thursday, May 10, 1798
Barton Cottage

I wrote a long letter to Christopher yesterday detailing most of the particulars of what had passed, but must now lay down all that has happened for my own sake.

Yesterday, as I was ready to finally explain the workings of my own heart to Marianne, we were surprised by a visit from none other than Edward Ferrars. Even more surprised we soon were in learning that it was not Edward but his brother Robert who had married Lucy Steele.

Suspecting that his true reason for coming to Barton was to exchange one engagement for another, I managed to talk with him alone. He proceeded to lay down his entire story with Lucy Steele before me. He said his feelings for her were but a "foolish, idle inclination" that was as much a result of ignorance of the world as of want of employment. Lucy had appeared amiable, obliging and pretty and he knew too little of women then to realize her failings. He went on to say he had soon come to recognize his folly, but had believed Lucy to be sincerely attached to him to the last and had thus seen no honorable way to undo the commitment.

Edward seemed to want only a little encouragement to address the subject of his feelings towards me, but that I could not give him. Being as sincere as possible, I told him that I had come to esteem him at Norland, but since then had been disturbed and pained by his behavior towards me. Knowing that I was growing attached to him as he must have and knowing he could not answer these feelings (either because of the dictates of his family as I initially believed or due to his commitment to Lucy as he knew all along), he had failed to distance himself from me. I reassured that I did not believe he had done so deliberately or that he knew how much pain he had caused me, but I could not approve of his conduct. I told him I admired his integrity in standing by his engagement and that I would always think of him as friend, but that other feelings were long since gone. I hesitated a bit, but added at last that my affections were now engaged by another and that I would soon be married.

He had been grave and pale through my entire speech, but this last bit of intelligence seemed to bring back some animation. He asked me, in a carefully neutral tone, if Colonel Brandon was the man in question.

At that moment two things became very clear to me. The first is that he had long since harbored some jealousy against Christopher, which explained at least part of his behavior when I told him of the living. The second is that though he might have come across at first as hesitant and doubtful about the outcome of his errand at Barton, in truth he did not expect a very cruel reception and was, in fact, almost certain that he would leave this house an engaged man once more.

I felt a flash of anger then due to his presumption, but it was soon gone. If he was disappointed, it was a disappointment of his own making and he would have to live with that – it was punishment enough. I confirmed his assumption and he wished me joy, leaving Barton soon afterwards.

It was now time to face an ordeal I dreaded perhaps more than the first: I must explain all to Marianne. I regretted most keenly having waited so long. It was one thing to address Marianne as she had been then, full of self-reproach and regrets; it was quite another to face a sister that could not understand why I was not happily engaged to the man she believed I loved.

I took Marianne outside and confirmed that Edward's chief desire in coming to us was to reassure me of his affections, but that I had not let it come to that, for I told him that while I still liked him as a friend, he had long since lost my regard.

This Marianne could not seem to comprehend. That I had long hidden and downplayed my feelings for Edward she had come to accept; that I no longer had any romantic inclination towards him at all seemed too much for her. She was sure I was still hurt over finding out about his engagement to Lucy and begged me not to let my pride interfere with my future happiness. I had to forgive Edward and he was sure to forget whatever harsh words I may have said. I assured her that this was not the case – I had long since forgiven him for the pain he had caused me, though I could not forget it.

Here I made my fatal mistake. In my mind, there was one thing which would convince my sister of my sincerity: the knowledge that my heart now belonged to another. I thus told her that my affections were now Colonel Brandon's and that we were engaged to be married.

Oh, how Marianne took these words! She could not believe them until I told her to apply to my mother to learn the truth, as she had already given her consent. This seemed to convince her at last and her disbelief immediately transformed into fury. She reproached me most bitterly for having taken this course of action. Her words were harsh and made it perfectly clear that she believed that I had accepted Christopher's offer simply because of his money and perhaps even as a way to punish Edward for his engagement to Lucy. I was so shocked at her believing me to be so mercenary that I remained silent through her impassioned speech against my character. Once she started to criticize Christopher, however, (calling him "a nice, old gentleman, to be sure", but one incapable of inspiring any sort of tender feeling), my shock was overcome by my desire to defend him.

With the strictest voice I could manage, I told Marianne to stop. Surprise at my tone, she did and I then proceeded to say things that had been in my mind for months but which I had not uttered in deference to her feelings. As she seemed not to care about mine, I saw no reason then to hold back my criticism.

How hard I was on her! I did not say things which were untrue, nor did I exaggerate, but the truth was painful enough. I told her that simply because she exposed her heart without care to the impertinent scrutiny of the world; it did not mean that mine was so easy to read. I accused her of thinking of no one but herself since she met Willoughby and thus missing the growing affection between Christopher and I which had taken place in her presence. I compared her conduct with mine, as she had once done, in the most unflattering of ways. I even, to my shame, reproached her for her unthinking conduct at Cleveland, which had almost led to her death and caused us all enormous pain.

By the time I was finished Marianne was fighting back tears. I was immediately remorseful for my harsh words, but made no move to soothe her. Mama and I erred in not containing her follies, believing everything would turn out for the best; we might also have erred when we did not find the heart to reproach Marianne for her mistakes, considering the misery she had sunk to punishment enough.

In a surprisingly steady voice Marianne acknowledged that she had made many mistakes and was not the best person to give advice to anyone, least of all me. She then told me she wished me nothing but happiness and that she sincerely hoped the Colonel would be the right man to provide me with it. These were the last words she spoke to me until this morning at breakfast, where she resumed her usual comments without once referring to Edward, Christopher or what had passed between us. She does not seem angry with me, but only time will tell how much my harsh words may have damaged our relationship.

Meg, I am glad to say, took the news much better. When I returned alone to the house (Marianne had gone ahead and was already locked in her bedroom), she hugged me. "Mama says you are to marry Colonel Brandon," she said. "Well, he is quite old and I do not think him handsome at all, but he has always been very nice to us. I should have preferred Edward, for I like him above all other men we know, but if the Colonel can make you as happy as you deserve, Elinor, I shall be most happy to call him my brother."

It was not the unadulterated praise I had received from my mother, but after what had passed with Marianne it was enough to make me happy. I thanked Meg for her well wishes and excused myself to write to Christopher. I did not share with him all the details of my conversation with Marianne, for I did not want to upset him more than I had to, but I am determined to tell him all when I see him again. No secrets, no reticence – that shall always remain my motto when it comes to him.

At present I can write no more and shall defer my letters relating the engagement until tomorrow.

LETTER FROM ELINOR DASHWOOD TO JOHN DASHWOOD
Friday, May 11, 1798
Barton Cottage

My dear brother John,

I have the pleasure of informing you that I am engaged to be married to Colonel Brandon, a piece of news I am sure you will find very pleasing. We expect to be married in a month's time in the Church at Barton and follow to Delaford soon afterwards.

Sending my best regards to you and Fanny,
I am, &c., &c.,
Elinor Dashwood

LETTER FROM ELINOR DASHWOOD TO MRS JENNINGS
Friday, May 11, 1798
Barton Cottage

Dear Mrs. Jennings,

I should like first to thank you once more for all the kindness you showed to Marianne and I in the months we were in your company. I know we were not always the most delightful of companions, but you were always the most gracious of hostesses, seeing to our comfort with such earnest friendship. Of your help and support in nursing Marianne back to health I cannot think of without being overwhelmed and can only add to my gratitude – God bless you for it!

I now have the pleasure to share some news I am sure will please you greatly, though perhaps not surprise you much. In a month I shall no longer answer to the name of Dashwood, for dear Colonel Brandon and I are engaged to be married. He shall come to us next week and remain until the wedding, which shall take place in Barton Church. We are all most happy with this development, as you can well imagine, and also happy in the knowledge that all of our friends must rejoice with us. The Colonel and I would be very pleased if you would come and see us at Michaelmas to enjoy all the delights of Delaford you once spoke so fondly of.

Yours, &c., &c.,
Elinor Dashwood

LETTER FROM COLONEL BRANDON TO CAPTAIN WILLIAM DOBBIN
Friday, May 11, 1798
The Mansion-House at Delaford

My dear Dobbin,

I must beg your congratulations – I am to be married. The lady is Miss Elinor Dashwood, daughter of the late Henry Dashwood of Norland Park. She now resides at Barton Cottage with her mother and two younger sisters; Mrs. Dashwoord being a cousin of Sir John Middleton's, through whom I made their acquaintance.

We are to be married next month in Devonshire and shall then retire to Delaford. I know that it shall be impossible then for you to stand up with me as I would wish, but it would please me and Mrs. Brandon immensely if you could tear yourself from your duties during the Autumn and pay us a visit.

Your friend,
C. Brandon

LETTER FROM COLONEL BRANDON TO MR PALMER
Friday, May 11, 1798
The Mansion-House at Delaford

Dear Palmer,

I hope you, Mrs. Palmer and the child are in health and that the business we spoke of last has been successfully concluded.

I write to share news of the best kind: Miss Dashwood has done me the honor of accepting my hand. Now that her sister has been restored to health we see no reason to delay and shall accordingly be married from Barton in a month's time.

I am, &c., &c.
C. Brandon

LETTER FROM COLONEL BRANDON TO SIR JOHN MIDDLETON
Friday, May 11, 1798
The Mansion-House at Delaford

Dear Sir John,

I have the pleasure of sharing some joyful news – Miss Dashwood and I are to be married. Having long since expressed your wishes for such an outcome, I am sure you shall be delighted in beholding the success of your matchmaking schemes. We marry in a month's time at Barton Church.

Sending my regards to you, Lady Middleton and the children,

I am, &c., &c.
C. Brandon

EXPRESS FROM COLONEL BRANDON TO ELINOR DASHWOOD
Friday, May 11, 1798
The Mansion-House at Delaford

Dearest Elinor,

I am happy to hear that things turned well in the end and that you were not unduly disturbed by the events which took place.

I shall not pain you by asking you if you hold regrets – I know you wish Mr. Ferrars had not been pained, but that your heart has long since been mine. I feel sorry for him – he compounded the folly of his youth by thoughtless actions later on and because of that he lost something infinitely precious. Yet he is young and he is free – though he shall carry some regrets for the rest of his life, he shall not be unhappy forever unless he wishes to be so.

I have written to Sir John and the Palmers besides a few friends of my own and managed to settle some business by correspondence as well to my relief. Given all that has passed, I thought it best to anticipate my journey – you can expect me late on Saturday.

Until then, I remain,
Yours,
Christopher B

ELINOR'S DIARY
Sunday, May 13, 1798
Barton Cottage

Such a delightful day as this I can scarcely remember. Christopher arrived late last night and we walked arm in arm to Church in the morning, early enough to speak with Dr. Lennox and have the first call of the banns read during service today. The well wishes we received afterwards were plentiful and sincerely kind.

Most of the day was spent with my family, though Christopher and I did manage some moments to ourselves. He did not dare to do more than kiss my hands, however, as we both knew Meg was most shamelessly spying on us, to our great amusement. She has taken to calling him "brother Colonel" and he seems as delighted with it as I am in the knowledge that she comes to esteem him as much as I could wish.

Marianne, I am glad to say, behaved in the most civil of ways towards Christopher. I think that after keenly observing us behaving freely with one another as we did today, her suspicions are at last put to rest. We have not broached the subject of my engagement or Edward since our painful conversation and I do not know if we shall ever do so, but I now believe that no lasting damage shall come of it. We may never be as close as we once were, but I do not think any resentment shall linger.

The hour grows late and I shall blow my candle and go to sleep comforted in the knowledge of Christopher's presence so near me.

LETTER FROM COLONEL BRANDON TO SIR JOHN MIDDLETON
Monday, May 14, 1798
Conduit Street

My Dear Brandon,

Well done, old fellow! Miss Dashwood is quite a catch – such a monstrous pretty girl and so unaffected and pleasing! I wish you both very happy indeed.

Lady M. and I insist upon holding the wedding breakfast at the Park. We shall return by the end of the month and Lady M. assures me she shall be able to plan in that time an event that shall do justice to the happy occasion. Leave it all in her competent hands and I know you shall not be disappointed.

I am, &c.,
Sir John

LETTER FROM MRS JENNINS TO THE DASHWOODS
Monday, May 14, 1798
Berkeley Street

My dear Mrs. Dashwood and girls,

I have been in raptures the entire morning after receiving Miss Dashwood's letter. Engaged to the Colonel at last! I knew it would be so and am most sincerely happy to see things finally settled. He is a good, respectable man who will treat her well and she is a pretty, sensible girl who will make him cheerful – with as good an income as he has, nothing more is needed to guarantee their happiness. Dear Mrs. Dashwood, I know how a mother's heart basks in the comfort of seeing a daughter well settled and I am sure the other girls are as happy as they should be in gaining such a kind brother to look after them. Dear Miss Elinor, nothing would please me more than to come to you and see you so well settled – expect me at Michaelmas without fail!

I must now share some important news, for I do not know if you have learned of a most wondrous tale that involves people that are very close to us all. My cousin Lucy, as you know, was engaged to dear Mr. Edward, who stood by her and doted upon her even in face of his family's opposition, leaving him with nothing but the interest of £2000 to live on. And how, do you think, has the worthless hussy repaid this devotion? By jilting poor Mr. Edward, who now, by all accounts, lies almost broken-hearted at Oxford and eloping with none other than his own brother Robert! My indignation was most great when I learned of it, which was only the day after it all happened. I do think nothing was ever carried on so sly; for it was but two days before Lucy called and sat a couple of hours with me. Not a soul suspected anything of the matter, not even Nancy, who, poor soul! came crying to me the day after, in a great fright for fear of Mrs. Ferrars, as well as not knowing how to get to Plymouth; for Lucy it seems borrowed all her money before she went off to be married, on purpose we suppose to make a show with, and poor Nancy had not seven shillings in the world;--so I was very glad to give her five guineas to take her down to Exeter, where she thinks of staying three or four weeks with Mrs. Burgess, in hopes, as I tell her, to fall in with the Doctor again. And I must say that Lucy's crossness not to take them along with them in the chaise is worse than all. Poor Mr. Edward! I cannot get him out of my head, but you must send for him to Barton, and Miss Marianne must try to comfort him.

Yours sincerely attached,
Caroline Jennings

LETTER FROM JOHN DASHWOOD TO ELINOR DASHWOOD
Monday, May 14, 1798
Harley Street

My dear sister,

Let me first congratulate you in what I know to be an exemplary match. I hold the Colonel in the highest regard and am sure you shall settle very well together. Pray send him my best compliments and reassure him that Fanny and I shall be amongst your first visitors. The change of scene shall be good for my poor Fanny, who, I am afraid, has been rather unwell for we have had the most shocking blow come upon us almost a fortnight ago. Our own dear Robert, who we had all thought so promising and to whom Mrs. Ferrars had entrusted all her expectations (in addition to the estate at Norfolk) has had the temerity of eloping with none other than Lucy Steele!

Your shock and dismay, dear sister, I can well imagine, but to us it was all the more horrifying. Robert's offence is unpardonable and his wife's – and how I shudder to write these words! – infinitely worse. The secrecy with which everything has been carried on between them – for to be sure proper measures would have been taken to prevent this sad occurrence had matters been know – is beyond supportable. As I am sure you have deduced, neither of them shall ever again be mentioned to Mrs. Ferrars and should she, in her infinite benevolence, be someday induced to forgive her son, his wife shall never be acknowledged as her daughter, nor be graced with her company.

Poor Mrs. Ferrars is indeed the most unfortunate of women, to be so callously treated and Fanny, dear kind soul that she is, has suffered agonies of sensibility. I am profoundly grateful that they have such strong constitutions and have rallied, as well as can be expected, from this painful ordeal.

In your present state of contentment, my dear sister, I am sure you will regret, as much as I do, that the young woman's engagement to Edward did not come to fruition. If the Ferrars family had to suffer the indignity of receiving such a low personage in its breast, it would have been preferable she had taken Edward and closed all relations with a clean break instead of spreading the misery she has caused us farther by this shocking elopement.

Mrs. Ferrars has never yet mentioned Edward's name, which does not surprise us; but, to our great astonishment, not a line has been received from him on the occasion. Perhaps, however, he is kept silent by his fear of offending, and I shall, therefore, give him a hint, by a line to Oxford, that his sister and I both think a letter of proper submission from him, addressed perhaps to Fanny, and by her shewn to her mother, might not be taken amiss; for we all know the tenderness of Mrs. Ferrars's heart, and that she wishes for nothing so much as to be on good terms with her children.

I am, &c., &c,
Your brother,
John D.

LETTER FROM JOHN DASHWOOD TO EDWARD FERRARS
Monday, May 14, 1798
Harley Street

My dear brother Edward,

I shall not waste lines in remembrance of the shocking event that so mortified us all. You must know how it was received and the steps that have been taken since then. Your mother and Fanny are most grieved and I have seldom seen them brought so low.

The time is ripe, however, for you to redeem yourself from past mistakes. I should think that a letter of proper submission, addressed to Fanny, perhaps, shall do much to bring forth the tenderness of your mother's heart. The dearest woman does wish, most sincerely, to be on good terms with her children and now that one son is lost to her forever, she would be most pleased to welcome the other back into the bosom of our family. Things can never return to what they once were, of course, but I do think that if you let yourself be guided by those who wish you well you shall yet find yourself in a comfortable position in life.

We have had some very pleasing news from my sisters. It is now settled that Elinor is to marry Colonel Brandon. I knew it would come to that, for they seemed very fond of each other in London and I am glad to say that I did my best to encourage him as much as possible. His position in life, his fortune, his character – all shall suit Elinor very well and I am sure he will do his best to look after her mother and sisters. Her entire family approves of the match most heartily, as it should be.

I am, &c., &c,
John Dashwood.

LETTER FROM EDWARD FERRARS TO COLONEL BRANDON
Tuesday, May 15, 1798
Broad Street, Oxford

Dear Colonel Brandon,

Some two months past you did me the great honor of offering me the living at Delaford which is in your gift. At the time taking orders was my most earnest desire and the establishment of a situation a most pressing need. I expressed then my utmost gratefulness to your generosity and I reiterate it now.

Circumstances, however, have changed considerably since we last spoke and I am now uncertain whether or not I should suit for a life in the service of the Church. Accordingly, I should wish to most respectfully decline the parsonage you so kindly bestowed upon me. It is my sincere hope that you shall find a worthier recipient for it.

I am, sir, your most obedient and humble servant,
Edward Ferrars

LETTER FROM COLONEL BRANDON TO ELINOR DASHWOOD [DELIVERED BY MARGARET DASHWOOD]
Sunday, June 10, 1798
Barton Park

My Beloved Elinor,

It seems so strange to find myself in my usual rooms at the Park after the delightful weeks I have passed in the Cottage. I find that in these short hours I have been away I already miss the sound of Marianne's pianoforte, the sight of your mother and Margaret at lessons and the knowledge that no matter where I was, you were always close to me.

I can well imagine dearest, that this has been an emotional evening. No matter how welcome the events of the morrow, it must be difficult to leave behind all that you have known your entire life. I can only promise you this: I will uphold the vows I will make to you until the end of my days and I will do my utmost to ensure your happiness as I know you will ensure mine.

There is so much I want to say to you, and yet the words do not come to me. Perhaps a part of me knows that these are not the words to be confided to letters, no matter how private – these are the words to be whispered in the darkness to be drowned by a pair of rapid heartbeats. These are not the words to be said to a fiancιe, no matter how well loved – these are the words for a wife.

I must close now dearest, for we both need our sleep this evening and I long to dream of you. I will only add; I love you.

Yours,
Christopher

NEWSPAPER ANNOUNCEMENT
Tuesday, June 12, 1798
London
Wedding Announcements

On the 11th of June, at Barton, Devonshire, Colonel Christopher Brandon (ret.) of Delaford, Dorsetshire and Miss Elinor Dashwood, eldest daughter of the late Mr. Henry Dashwood of Norland Park, Sussex.

On the 12th in Northanger, in the county of Gloucester, The Right Honble. The Viscount Bosham, heir to the Earl of Emsworth, to Miss Eleanor Tilney, daughter of General Tilney of Northanger Abbey. The ceremony was conducted by Reverend Henry Tilney of Woodston, the bride's brother.
Lord and Lady Bosham shall reside in the family seat of the Earl of Emsworth, Blandings Castle, Shropshire.

LETTER FROM ELINOR BRANDON TO MRS DASHWOOD
Monday, October 22, 1798
The Mansion-House at Delaford

Dear Mama,

I was very glad to receive your last and learn that you and my sisters are all settling comfortably at Barton once more. Our last visitors have left us and not a moment too soon – I confess to have been feeling quite fatigued these past few days.

I have reason to believe, however, that my fatigue is not merely a result of our social engagements. Though I am not yet absolutely certain, an unusual delay and other symptoms (such as a new found abhorrence for kippers at breakfast) lead me to believe I shall soon have the best of news to impart. My suspicions could not be kept from Christopher, who is as eager to see them confirmed as I am. It will be some weeks until I can be absolutely certain, but I am afraid my hopes and joy at the prospect cannot be contained. By the time we all gather at Cleveland for Christmas, I am sure we shall have a happy announcement to make.

I shall close now, for Christopher's business is completed and nothing restores me more than a walk in the gardens alongside my husband.

Your affectionate daughter,
Elinor Brandon