Hello Stranger

Chapter 7

7

Dear Phillipa,

It was lovely to see you again over Christmas. I hope you had a happy one, and a joyous new year- Happy 1799! I received a gold embellished quill for from my father, so expect more letters.

You seem to be Martha's new favorite subject. I can't count the number of times she brought you up- to be quite frank, I think she may be keen on you. I'd keep an eye out for her the next time you're in town, for I know she would love to see you.

I've finished the book. It was excellent. I do hope you'll hurry on with your French studies so we might discuss it- Mr. Ericson is a wonderful conversationalist, but he speaks so much like... a teacher, I suppose. I'd rather discuss it with one of my peers.

You may have heard of it already, but it seems our fathers have gotten in another scuffle, of sorts. A fight broke out in town the other day, and indeed, it was of the Hamilton and Burr households once again. I believe it started verbally. Then your father took out his fists.

I'm sorry, that wasn't a very pleasant topic of conversation, and I'm sure you've already heard of it from your family. Though, if you have the chance, please tell you father that I, on behalf of my household, apologize for his black eye.

On a happier subject, I've found a way to repay you for the book. Inclosed in the package, you'll find a scarf- I knitted it myself. The snow is absolutely lovely, but I'm afraid that it leaves little to be done outdoors, which means I'm trapped inside with nothing but my studies and my knitting needles to keep me company.

I dearly await your response. You have yet to tell me of your plan to "bridge our families," though after our father's fight I doubt it will be happening anytime soon.

Yours,

Theodosia Burr

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My Dearest Theo,

I must start by thanking you very dearly for the scarf- I've worn it everyday since receiving it. I'm not sure how you knew green is my best color, but I must say, I look rather dashing in it.

I too enjoyed seeing you over Christmas. New Years was wonderful- though I did have a friend drink a little too much and lose his lunch over a lady's ballgown. I'm glad to hear of your new quill, but I must correct you- the gift was received from Saint Nick, not your father.

I'm rather flattered to here of the news with Martha- though not surprised, I do have a history of charming women. I'll make sure to find her in my next visit, though I fear it won't be until April. If you sent her address, I'd be sure to write her a letter.

I'm afraid my studies are going too slowly for me to read the book, but I promise to make it a top priority. Nothing but French homework from now on- though my father says I must steer away from it, seeing as he now seems to have something against the French and everything they stand for.

I hadn't heard of the fight, though I can't say I'm surprised. I'll make sure to send my father your condolences.

I'm afraid my plan to bridge our two families (it does not need quotations) may not work at the moment. Perhaps if we wait for things to cool down, then we could attempt it again.

Yours, now and forever,

Phillipa Hamilton

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Dear Philip,

Have you heard of the fight that Father and Mr. Burr got into? It's all Father talks about. He has a black eye- I think that John is secretly scared to look at him. Father seems to be on the brink of insanity, working day and night, never leaving his study, not even for dinner.