September 14th 1894

Dear Miss Violetta,

Of course I shall write to you. My heart seems presently amiss! Perhaps I've misplaced it?

Since we're sharing our sorrows, I must confess I've been wretched. It saddens me to hear your friends aren't treating you well. Are you the target of some girlish intrigue? I've heard young ladies have a tendency towards such wiles. I do hope your friends are, indeed, ladies. It pleases me that you think of me. Yes, I hope you shall remember me forever! I think of you often and with great anguish, for I have placed my undying affection on a flower so unattainable. It is just like me to do such a foolish thing. My valet tells me this all the time.

Regarding the scandal: people gossip about the silliest things, especially if the lady concerned is pretty. Not in reference to your maman, of course (she's a perfectly lovely woman). Pay them no mind.

Yours evermore,

Victor