July 30th, 1888

Miss Adlard,

Oh, Felicity, I am so happy to hear that. See? You never know what will come from a conversation. It must be a silver lining for all that has happened these past few weeks. The fact that he has even stated the option tells me he already thinks of you as more than a little sister. I don’t think a gentleman who thought such would even humor the idea of seeing what might come from it. But how will your own brother react to this news?

Helping him with the shop is the perfect time to help him realize just how much of a catch you are. On an aside, I do hope you choose something other than orange. You shall have to let me know what your ideas are. I wish I had seen the shop before all this happened so I might be of some help. I do admit that decorating is a bit of shortcoming of mine. Now choosing styles of dresses, well that is something I quite excel at.

Sadly, no. It remains as quiet as ever. If only the fog would lift and the social season could resume in its entirety. I shall have to endeavor to persuade my brothers to remain in London for the next season, however, for it appears that I shall leave quite bereft of my first proper British season what with this fog.

Your friend,
Caroline Delaney

  

August 1st, 1888

Miss Delaney,

Yes, it was all a bit of a surprise, really. I am simply grateful he thought to check on me after he saw the news of my fiance. He certainly didn't have to do something like that, but he did. And.. in regards to Percy, I'm not sure how he'll take it. We had a long discussion after he found me asleep in his bed after that night I drank too much. He once loved a girl only to find out she had agreed to marry someone else before he had a chance to propose. It broke his heart. So I'd like to think that he'd approve of it if it were to become something of a love match. But.. for now.. we're not going to say anything to him. No point in angering him if something doesn't happen between the two of us after all.

Yes.. the orange was a bit bright. I'm thinking a more neutral and simple sort of palette with bold pops of color. Maybe silver and gold accents to add a bit of luxury to it. He's mentioned having a mural done though so it may be best to start with that. I can build a color palette around the mural that is done.

And luckily, the fog is gone here now! If lifted earlier this afternoon! We need to plan a time for tea or something. I would much rather speak to you in person now that we can as opposed to letters.

Sincerely,
Miss Adlard

  

---

BEE-utiful Set!

August 2, 1888

Miss Adlard,

Your brother sounds like quite the romantic. Surely he wouldn’t do anything to keep you apart if such sentiments were shared between you and Mr. Honeyduke. Although, I do think opportune timing is needed before you tell him, which, brings me to complete agreement in your plan. You must keep me abreast of how this goes.

Yes, bringing out the pops of color from the mural. It could be in the shelves or something to that accord. I shall be excited to see how your design goes.

Oh thank goodness, the fog is gone! Name the day and the place and I will be more than happy to join you for tea. I feel like I have had no real company besides my maid and my brothers in months. You shall be a welcome addition!

Your friend,
Caroline Delaney

  

August 3rd, 1888

Miss Delaney,

How about tomorrow? I think I would like to come to London. I've spent far too much time stuck here thanks to the fog. I could certainly use a change of scenery.

Is it untoward to ask if I can come to your home for tea? If so, we can meet somewhere in Diagon Alley. Just let me know which is best suitable for you.

Sincerely,
Miss Adlard

  

---

BEE-utiful Set!

August 3, 1888

Miss Adlard,

You may certainly come to tea tomorrow. I would love to see you. I shall have it ready at 3 o’clock in the afternoon. If you are feeling truly adventurous we can even go shopping afterward!

Your friend,
Caroline Delaney