August 30th, 1888 — Left in Theo’s Room
Theodore,
By now, you’ve likely found the two keys upon which I laid this letter. One is to the family vault at Gringotts. The other is for the vault used to finance the Cannons. The paperwork for investments, deeds, et al will be passed along by the lawyer upon confirmation that I am dead.
I know that I said I was for India to scout potential players for the Cannons. When, in the spring, I made the arrangements, I had in fact intended to do just that. The recent attack in London, though, gave me pause, and it is with a heavy heart that I must acknowledge it is simply not safe for me to remain with the family I have long sought to protect from my affliction. When I left the house this morning, it was with no intention of returning home.
I will not say for where I am truly bound, but it will be weeks, rather than months, before you learn of my ‘passing’. I do not want to prolong the uncertainty more than necessary to be believable. I should make you aware that, while you are my primary beneficiary financially, the house and shop are left to my wife along with a modest allowance to ensure her well-being until such a time as she chooses to remarry. Cecily, Natty, and Selene are also more than accounted for. I hope that you will continue to consider Veronica family if only for your siblings’ sake.
It is important to me that you know how deeply, deeply proud I am of the man that you have become. Wherever I do end up, I assure you that I will scour the news for each trace of you that I can find, that I might continue to watch you grow and succeed in the decades to come. If ever a lad had what it takes to walk the road that lies ahead, it is most assuredly you. Never doubt that.
Please burn this letter. I should hate for you or your siblings to be denied my legacy on a technicality.
I will miss you, Theo.
With every inch of my heart,
Father
— pretties by Soph ❤ —