Letter from Roman Dryden
c/o Mrs. Dwight, Fenchurch Street, London
To Miss Leslie Lydia Barrow, Claverton House, Grosvenor Square, London

My dear Miss Barrow,

Please do not apologize. I understand that you may have had a change of heart—or indeed, perhaps you were not as decided on the matter as I had been, and if so, I understand.

I am, however, surprised that you are in London? I am in between joy and disappointment, not knowing in which direction my heart should settle, as I would have been so very happy to see you. Alas, I suppose that is not to be? Or—would you be agreeable to meeting with me? I promise I will not say anything to make you uncomfortable, or to press my suit. The truth is that I wish to make a clean breast of some matters which I fear you may have misunderstood. It is selfish of me to wish that we part on honest terms, but there it is. If it is anything I dislike, it is when no one tries to undo a misunderstanding, for the pain that follows may torment one for years. Do not ask me how I know this.

So as much as I know that what I ask is selfish, I would like to have an honest conversation with you, so that we may each go our own separate way without a painful memory of what passed between us.

I will be at this address, if you would be so good as to write to me here. I have been afflicted with a chest ailment—mild, I assure you—and have not been able to make my arrangements to return to my properties in the north. As such I fear I will be here into the new year and perhaps some weeks beyond. I am grateful to you for your letter, and beg you grant me the indulgence of one last meeting.

About the ring, which you very kindly offered to return. I hope you will wear it in good health and consider it a token of affection and respect from one who admires you greatly.

Your most ob’t,
ROMAN DRYDEN