Frankenstein (Condensed for easy studying)

Letter # 1

 

Robert Walton is writing a letter to his sister, Mrs. Margaret Saville. It is December 11th. Robert Walton is speaking. 

You will be pleased to hear that no disaster has happened so far with my journey, which you found so dangerous. I arrived here yesterday, and my first goal was to let you know that I am fine. I am far north of London, in Petersburgh. I feel cold breeze here, and it fills me with delight, as it reminds me of my destination. My daydreams have become more vivid. 

I expect the north pole will be full of beauty and delight, where the sun is forever visible. I hope to satiate my curiosity by visited a place never seen by another man, and perhaps discover magnetism. 

By writing this letter, I have started to feel my heart lift, as I was upset prior to the writing. I had no formal education, as you know, but I always enjoyed reading in uncle Thomas's library. The books in his library were of men who had adventures, and father never allowed me to adventure as I dreamed. With those dreams crushed, I attempted to become a poet, however I miserably failed, and fell into a deep depression. The only was out of my depression was to dream again of adventure. 

It has been 6 years since I have started to do this undertaking. To prepare, I accompanied whale-fishers on several expeditions. I helped the sailors during the day, and studied math, medicine, and physical science at night. I worked as whaler twice, and my boss did not want me to leave, as he found my work very useful. 

With all this work, do I not deserve some great joy? I never wished the wealth that I had as a youth, instead favoring glory. I have full courage, but I do have changes in my levels of hope. 

The time that I am now traveling in is most favorable to travel. The cold is not so bad. I will leave town in a fortnight or 3 weeks, and I will hire a ship there. I will also hire as many experienced soldiers that I think that I may need. I will begin my voyage in June. I do not know when I will return. if I succeed, it may be many months to even years. If I fail, you will see me soon, or never again.

Farewell, sister. I hope I will be able to again sing your praises for all of your love.