Chapter 30
Dear Cousin Cecilia,
I write with news I hope will please you. After much consideration, I have accepted an offer of marriage from Mr Edward Wilton, second son of Viscount Ashbury. He is kind, thoughtful, and makes me laugh—qualities I have come to value far above wealth or title.
We shall marry in the spring, quietly, in the country. I would be honoured if you and His Grace would attend, though I understand if such an association might feel uncomfortable, given the history between our families.
Mama is, of course, furious. She had hoped for a more illustrious match—one that might restore what we have lost. But I find I no longer care what Mama hopes. I have spent too many years being what she required of me. It is time I became what I wish to be.
I believe I learned that, in some measure, from you. Watching you claim your happiness despite every obstacle made me believe I might do the same.
Georgiana, I should add, has found her own path.
She is engaged to Mr William Harding, a gentleman farmer from Derbyshire.
He is no duke—nor even a baronet—but he seems to care for her sincerely, and she is, I think, learning to return the sentiment.
She has softened greatly this past year.
Loss and humiliation have a way of stripping away pretence.
I hope this letter finds you well. I have heard whispers that congratulations may soon be in order on another count, but I will not presume. Some news is better shared in person.
With affection,
Dorothea