My Dearest Father,

I was so delighted to receive your letter! The house feels a bit emptier without your laughter echoing through its halls, and your absence is keenly felt. I assure you, though, that everything here is running smoothly, though I daresay the bank manager is hardly the conversationalist you are.

Your tales of the new team’s condition had me laughing into my morning tea and my dear brother reprimanded me sharply—termites, really? But I have no doubt that with your guidance, they will be turning things around in no time. Perhaps that consultant from Montrose will be necessary after all. Knowing you, I’m sure you’ve already got the wheels turning about how to whip them into shape.

Now, as for Mr. Rosier… What can I say? He’s everything one would expect a “suitable” match to be—handsome, charming, with all the right connections and manners. He certainly knows how to make a grand entrance. It’s all so typical, though, isn’t it? He knows exactly how to make an impression, but I wonder if there is anything more to him beyond the performance.

It’s all so calculated—he seems to know exactly what to say and when to say it, but I can’t help but feel that it’s all just a bit… hollow. Perhaps I am being too critical, but I can’t shake the feeling that I am just another box he’s looking to tick off on his way to securing his future. I suppose it’s only natural for someone in my position to have a certain level of skepticism, but I do wish these encounters would feel a bit more genuine. But Mama's views on him are clear and I will make all effort to assess him fairly and impress him as a Blackwood should. I will, of course, continue to entertain him and see where things go.

I look forward to your return —it seems so far away, but I’m counting the days.

Take care of yourself, and don’t let those poor players wear you down too much. They’re lucky to have you, and I’m sure they’ll soon realize it.

With all my love,
Your Vera