January 2, 1890

Dearest Maggie,

I hope this letter finds you well, it is the least I can wish for having been remiss in our friendship these past few months. I hope what I am about to share with you will incline you toward forgiveness for my silence since September.

I admit I was hesitant to write in case I broke the spell of good fortune I felt in the events I am about to unfold for you. The nature of these were so dear to me that I could bring myself to do anything which might have jeopardized them, but as things are settled now I can finally share my joy. My actions my strike you as rash and perhaps improper, but I assure you that they have given me the greatest happiness. As you are well acquainted with my past I hope you will understand why I did what I did.

As you know I spent most of the summer in London, for reasons I am sure you will remember. Father was puzzled by these actions, but the comfort of having Mr. SD so nearby was enough for me to brave such a location. These plans had been laid out, but I admit that I was spontaneous in the next of my actions. SD and I left for the Americas in September telling nary a soul. I wrote to father about it, although I can not say if such rumors leaked out or not. SD was a complete gentleman the entirety of the voyage and as such my virtue remained intact. However, a day before we made port SD proposed to me. I am sure I do not need to tell you what my answer was.

The Delaney family received me very kindly, however, Mrs. Delaney wished to press for an early marriage, setting the date for the new year. SD had not spoken to father and I sent another letter laying out the situation. Please know that I was not so rash as to have eloped. I can scare believe what rumors might be floating about my present situation back home.

I am happy to write that as of yesterday morning I am now Mrs. Shawn Delaney. I have written my father to share the good news as well, but I wished for you to hear of this from myself.

Please do forgive my silence these past few months.

Your friend always,
Nimiane