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My dear Thorn,

Your permission to use your given name has indeed appeased my sister’s spirit, though I fear you have only encouraged her further interference in our correspondence. She now insists I tell you more about myself, as apparently discussing one’s inability to dance is not proper getting-to-know-you conversation.

Very well. I suppose I should tell you that I grew up helping my father with his business ventures, so I’ve worked since I was a child. Many among the ton would consider it unladylike, but I hope you won’t be one of them. Even now, I tend to keep my hands and my mind busy at all times, as I find nothing more tedious than being idle.

I noticed you mentioned not frequenting many social events. May I ask why? My sister (yes, the same one—she is reading over my shoulder again) tells me you were seen at the Medusa Theater last week. I don’t know where she gets that information from. Did you enjoy the performance? I must confess, I find myself curious about how you spend your evenings when not being forced to dance with clumsy fiancées.

I hope I might make a favorable impression upon your father when we meet. I understand his approval means a great deal.

Yours,

Penelope

P.S. My sister insists I am not clumsy. She says I merely need more practice. I remain unconvinced.

* * *

Dearest Miss Prescott,

Your sister sounds delightful, and I must agree with her assessment. You do just need a bit more practice, and I hope I, as your future husband, can provide you with a few lessons. That ought to keep your hands, if not your feet, a bit more occupied.

As for my father’s approval—do not waste a moment’s thought on it. The last thing you should concern yourself with is gaining that man’s good opinion. Trust me in this.

I am intrigued by your childhood, as mine was likely a lot different. What else have you done aside from rolling cocoa beans to occupy your days and nights? (I have to admit my ignorance when it comes to the process of making chocolate.)

I hope nothing too exciting. Otherwise, you might find existence as the viscountess rather boring.

As for the Medusa Theater, your sister must have keen sources of information. I did attend, though I found myself rather distracted throughout the performance. I cut the evening short and retired into my library for a quiet reading time.

Tell me, what do you prefer to do in your free time now? Should I clear out the music room for your favorite instruments? Or should I stock up the house full of chocolate beans to keep you from falling into boredom?

Sincerely,

Thorn

P.S. I do not mind your sister reading our correspondence. But if you feel uncomfortable with her meddling, I might just start including increasingly scandalous content that is bound to make her blush.

* * *

My dear Thorn,

Since you’ve granted me leave to use your given name, I pray you’ll do me the honor of calling me Penelope as well.

Regarding my childhood, there was not a lot I had the time to do. I enjoyed reading books and learning about the stars. I spent a lot of nights lying outside and staring at the sky.

I am afraid I have to keep the family secret regarding the best chocolate in England. Only relinquished once we marry. Until then, perhaps you could teach me some of your hobbies?

I hope this isn’t too forward of me, but I find myself surprised at your attitude toward your father’s approval. Might I ask why?

As for my musical talents, you will be relieved or perhaps disappointed to learn that I have none. Not quite Viscountess-like, now, is it? I tried my hand at painting once, but I’m afraid I ended up wearing more of the paint than what made it onto the canvas.

Yours,

Penelope

P.S. I must confess that your threat had a desired effect on my sister. She has decided to busy herself with needlework across the room while I write, though she keeps casting suspicious glances my way.

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