Succeeding in this will gain support of the town. I know it is not what you dreamed of, but you must think on it. Think of what it could do for the town. Everyone would adore you for it and you could bring some much needed attention to our humble community. I urge you to read my full letter before you begin to pen a response.
Seducing the duke is a viable option. True he is not handsome, nor is known for his wits, but he is known to be kind. There are no rumors of him gallavanting about with other women and he is certainly rich enough to look after you. I believe he has already even expressed some interest in you from what I hear. Did he not ask you to dance twice at the latest ball? Surely there is not much you need to do to hold his interest if you have already sparked it.
I am not surprised by his spark of interest, by the by. A person would have to be truly without sense to miss your charms. Your lustrous auburn hair with its thick curls, your calm ocean blue eyes, and your hourglass figure could drive anyone wild. Your lilting voice and quick tongue never fail to captivate anyone in your thrall. Finally, your kind heart is noticed by all who make your acquaintance. You are truly a gem, my dear friend and the duke would be lucky to have you and a fool to ignore your advances.
You know that our town is in need. True, the duke has not been negligent, per say, but he has larger towns to worry about. Our town is a gem. Think of what could happen to our beloved Queen's Head inn or the charming flower shops and bakeries that we're known for if this drought continues. I am not suggesting a marriage will cure the drought--although perhaps a witch would be better consulted for such matters--but it will assure that our town is not overlooked by the duke. Surely he would never let the town of his beloved fall asunder.
I humbly suggest that you act sooner rather than later--if you are going to act at all that is. You have the duke's attention now so it's best to strike while the iron is hot as they say. There are several balls coming up that I am sure you will both be attending. Get to the dress maker and get a few new gowns that fit you just right and that complement your coloring. Ask your mother to borrow her pearls--I hear the duke favors them--and wear them with confidence.
How we have grown, the two of us. Once we were young girls looking to daisies to tell our futures and tea leaves to predict whom we would marry and now here we are, corresponding from far away to discuss actual marriage options. Perhaps it was more romantic when we were younger, but now we must be more practical. Growing up certainly has it's disadvantages, does it not?
I know that this plan may mean our relationship must change, but did we ever truly have a chance to begin with? I know in previous letters perhaps I voiced the hope that it could, but we are grown now and must make grown decisions. What we share is pure and good, but it must be kept between us or the world will sully it. Please do not think of me when you make your decision. I will support you in whatever path you choose in life, I hope you know that.
Please respond when you can.
Your dearest friend and confidant,
Rose
(Prompt by Kimisha Cassidy)
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