December 10th, 1890

Jupiter

I missed you.

I know we've never been all that alike. I know you practically despise me for how traditional I am. But I am concerned. How are you? I haven't heard a word of you since your return.

Vanessa

Jupiter Smith

  

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December 11th, 1890

Vanessa,

I apologize for not reaching out sooner. My return home has been quite an adjustment that I must confess to struggling through.

I'm healing as well as to be expected. And you? Are you and your family well?

Jo

Although her handwriting contains much of the same characteristics, it is now a much sloppier version. Some letters have random lines going through them as though the quill suddenly shifted mid-stroke.

  

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beautiful set by mj

December 12th, 1890

Jo

Mother is as can be expected. I think I'm something of a disappointment at the moment for her as well, what with two seasons without a single prospect. One would think that a gentleman might be a bit more interested in a voice like a songbird. Father still thinks I ought to have gone into some professional field. Perhaps if I reach spinsterhood I will take up Divination as a career. It's not as if I failed the course.

Other than that, all are quite well. How is it, being finally home?

Vanessa

Jupiter Smith

  

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December 14th, 1890

Vanessa,

A career is always favorable to the debutante life. Why rely on someone to provide what you can do yourself? It isn't too late to start a profession now.

Being home is strange, especially since I wasn't due to return for some time. I already miss traveling, too, but it will be nice to see my family for Christmas. I haven't been here for the holidays in years.

Jo

Although her handwriting contains much of the same characteristics, it is now a much sloppier version. Some letters have random lines going through them as though the quill suddenly shifted mid-stroke.

  

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beautiful set by mj

December 15th, 1890

Jo

I know, but I at least want to try. And what I truly wish to do is seen as the work of one lesser than our status. I hate that I should feel ashamed that my God-given talents lie almost exclusively in music. I just wish I could sing and not have my singing be relegated to merely a ladylike hobby.

Divination is simply the only other skill I have that can earn money, and even then, not much.

Vanessa

Jupiter Smith

  

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December 16th, 1890

Vanessa,

I don't know how to persuade you that following your passion isn't something to be ashamed of. That's a decision you'll have to come to yourself.

My passion took me across the world, and I'll never regret that. Even if Society deems me unsuitable for its ranks.

Jo

Although her handwriting contains much of the same characteristics, it is now a much sloppier version. Some letters have random lines going through them as though the quill suddenly shifted mid-stroke.

  

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beautiful set by mj

December 17th, 1890

Jo

Yes, well, professional singers are seen much as actresses are. Harlots. I'd rather seem a proper lady than a wanton woman. I wish my passion was something like yours.

Vanessa

Jupiter Smith

  

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December 16th, 1890

Vanessa,

I'm fairly confident my profession is the equivalent of a loose woman here in England. Move to Italy. The opera singers there are celebrated.

Jo

Although her handwriting contains much of the same characteristics, it is now a much sloppier version. Some letters have random lines going through them as though the quill suddenly shifted mid-stroke.

  

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beautiful set by mj

December 19th, 1890

Jo

Yours is adventure, which is seen as exceedingly masculine. But I would much rather remain here in London, close to the family at least for now. As I told Father, I want to at least try before I look like a fallen woman. At least singing is somewhat more respectable of a spinster who has exhausted her choices.

Vanessa

Jupiter Smith

  

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December 22nd, 1890

Vanessa,

Whatever makes you happy. Best of luck with the husband thing.

Jo

Although her handwriting contains much of the same characteristics, it is now a much sloppier version. Some letters have random lines going through them as though the quill suddenly shifted mid-stroke.

  

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beautiful set by mj

December 22th, 1890

Jo

And I wish you only the best of luck with your continued healing process, and hopefully a happy Christmas.

Vanessa

Jupiter Smith

  

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