April 27th
Hannah,

I arrived at Mrs. Black's house party last night and told everyone you had become quite ill. I almost hope that's the truth, because I can think of no other reason you might be avoiding a gathering at the home of one of my close friends. Your absence is quite conspicuous, though I hope I was able to disguise how much of a surprise it came to me.

I hope you will be feeling better by the time the season starts next month. It shall be difficult to make last-minute excuses for you at our own parties.

You might, at least, have told me you weren't coming.
Thom

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April 28th, 1888

Thom,
I had informed Mrs. Black upon receipt of the invitation that I did not think my health would permit me to attend. It seemed the easiest route, given my lack of engagement with society of late, and in truth I suspected—rightly—that simply wouldn't have it in me to pretend I wanted to be there.

I do hope my absence will not prevent you from having a jolly time. Please give my best wishes to Mr. and Mrs. Black, and extend once again my regrets.
With affection,

H

  

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— Beesets are the gift that keep giving ♡ —

Unsent:

April 28th
Hannah,

If your absence prevented me from enjoying myself I should hardly have smiled for the last year, would I have?

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   Aldous Crouch