Twins of Tenby Hall

Chapter 13

Izzy! How angry I am you were not with me that night! I have much to tell you and I need your advice for you were always wiser than me, sister. Let me first summarize the ball: I danced the first with Matthew (you may rest now that Matthew's first dance with me has been redeemed, think badly of me no longer), but I danced with Kirkley for the second. It was lovely, naturally. You know what I have always wanted in a husband, and he is exactly that vision: gallant, romantic, handsome and elegant; but now I must admit I feel a little unconvinced of his affections. He did not deny his questionable reputation when it came up in conversation during the dance; and another thing, I saw Kirkley sneak off into the library late into the ball. I followed of course, as is it not strange for him to sneak away to an empty room in the middle of a party in our own home? He claimed he was waiting for me, but it does not seem likely does it? He has mostly convinced me of his intentions in retreating there, and he was ever so romantic that I very nearly secured a kiss had Matthew not discovered us (I know you are shocked and will reprimand me for being so willing but hush and read on). He left! Matthew entered, and before we were able to tell who it was, Kirkley left! It distresses me he may be less than what he seems, but I am becoming more inclined to think less of him.

Carrying on with my tale – Matthew refrained from scolding me, shockingly, and I (being irritated at the time; he did foil my first kiss) might have told him his nosy behavior might have ruined a proposal (which is so preposterous I thought he would respond in jest) and he acted very strangely. He was very earnest in discouraging my acceptance (ridiculous), and circumstances apparently required him to hold me quite close, and (Allow me to assure you that it is difficult and uncomfortable for me to continue writing, knowing whom I write of) I had the thought that he is incredibly handsome and caring and I had very strange feelings I can't name – I say Izzy, I felt the urge to kiss him! Our Matthew! It is to strange to even think about! He and I also met by chance in the gardens the following morning (quite obnoxiously early, I could not sleep). He was very rumpled and sleepy and I have come to believe I may be developing feelings for him; but surely that cannot be! I know not what to think. I require your input. 

Oh, another odd thing: I accepted a dance with a one Lord Miles. He was the gentleman who shunned Miss Dunsworth's company to seek yours that first night, do you recall? He thought I was you, naturally, for the first half of the dance, and when corrected he demanded to know your whereabouts and began asking very forward questions; he asked if you had a beau! I told him you did. I did not like him in the least, a snake-ish sort of man.

I am glad you are enjoying Bath and the company of your companions. I can't believe you would forgo a crush for lagging about in your rooms, for shame, I should have gone to bath in place of you for you are wasting the city's delights.
Now for the greatest news! I was invited by cousin Charity to join she and Bertram in London! I am to journey to them in three days' time and spend the remainder of the season in Town! I could not be happier except you were there with me – perhaps you may join me there when you are quit Bath.
I look forward to your response with great anticipation sister, do please address it to cousin Charity's terrace on Whitehall street.

The most love,

Your Em