20th May, 1890

My most dear Delia,

I have made an appointment, without any pretense, to meet with your father. Indeed, I shall be departing to your home upon the sending of it, and expect that my owl shall precede my arrival by a quarter of an hour, if even that.

It is my hope that, by now, my most ardent wish is known to and welcomed by you. Though you have, in past conversations and correspondence, expressed to me your uncertainty as to your father's prejudices—particularly given my connection with my own father—it is my belief that, were I not to seek his approval and blessing, I would not be honourable enough to deserve that which I seek.

When next I look upon your face, I hope that I shall be able to ask you a very particular question.

Your devoted servant,

W. Pryce

— Delia Timmons —

  

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O beware, my lord, of jealousy...

— graphics by mj! —

20 May, 1890

My dearest Willard,

I realize there is no point in attempting to dissuade you when I am likely too late. I implore you to consider the ramifications of your actions if you have not already been exposed to them by the time my letter arrives. My father is a good man, but one with deep prejudices that have only been exacerbated by his health.

I write from a friend's home where I have spent the afternoon, so you will have left by the time I arrive. My love for you is eternal, and nothing will change that. I hope you know what you're doing.

Yours forever,
Miss Delia Timmons

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20th May, 1890

My most dear Delia,

An apology, I think, is owed to you. Though I trust you completely in so many arenas, I convinced myself to discount your warnings about your father and his predjudices. Though he did not do me the disrespect of laughing in my face, I think such a gesture was rather implied.

He will not give his blessing.

Writing those words has pained me in ways I cannot quite describe. It seems cruel to me that I have worked so hard in my life, only to be denied the one comfort that I would seek as reward for my efforts—your love and companionship. Please know that you continue, evermore, to have mine.

In love and admiration,

W. Pryce

— Delia Timmons —

  

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O beware, my lord, of jealousy...

— graphics by mj! —

21 May, 1890

My dearest Willard,

I am not angry, but I am, at minimum, disappointed that I could not be present. My father and I have very different visions for my future, and mine is unlikely to change simply because of his disapproval. You have my love—and if you so desire, my companionship. That will not change anytime soon. I understand if my father's reaction dissuades you from further pursuing our relationship, but know that I will be here, just as I was yesterday and the months before that.

Yours forever,
Miss Delia Timmons

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   Willard Pryce

         

23rd May, 1890

My most dear Delia,

Might you be able to slip away—perhaps at next week's flower show? I feel as though this is a conversation we must have face to face.

In love and admiration,

W. Pryce

— Delia Timmons —

  

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O beware, my lord, of jealousy...

— graphics by mj! —

24 May, 1890

My dearest Willard,

I see no reason why it would be an issue. My friends and I will be there shortly after noon.

Yours forever,
Miss Delia Timmons

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25th May, 1890

My most dear Delia,

I look forward to it.

In love and admiration,

W. Pryce

— Delia Timmons —

  

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O beware, my lord, of jealousy...

— graphics by mj! —