Chapter 7
Sir Christmas,
News of your capture at the Battle of the Basque Roads finally reached us.
I am filled with distress, wondering what kind of torment you have been subjected to during your four-year captivity.
Not knowing where you are, not being able to hear your voice, share your thoughts, hold you at last in my arms, I write this note more for therapeutic purposes than anything else.
I am determined to find you. I shall not be persuaded otherwise.
Your father has regained his strength and is in reasonable spirits, all news of your capture aside.
My cousin continues his search and is of the opinion that he can and will find you within the year.
Ansell has fatigued himself, tracing your journey from Salamanca to France.
Even now, he is narrowing down your position.
Together, we are employing a campaign to rescue you, and we shall do whatever it takes to make it so.
I entreat you, stay strong. Do not do anything to provoke your warders or endanger your life.
My head is full of all that I have seen and witnessed, so much so that it pains me to sleep at night wondering if you are healthy, alive, or if you have forgotten me.
I am with you, body, and spirit. I always shall be.
Your devoted Emma