Only Olivia

Chapter Four

Your letter does find me well though I have become bored already of the London scene. I will say nothing on your blatant disregard for societal rules. In fact, I find it most charming for I crave intelligent conversation. 

Not once as I read your missive did I feel overcome with boredom. In fact, I was smiling the whole time since you decided to reveal some of your life to me. Also, do not offer apologies where they are not needed. I asked far too much of you for our short acquaintance.  

As for your bout of ennui, please remember that the entire Baynes family loves you dearly. They do not prescribe to all the proper rules and truly consider you to be a part of their small family. Do not overthink on it and merely accept it as best you can. Also, ignore Cat's claims that you are a distant relation of her family. It is a preposterous assumption. It is more likely for you to be the daughter of French aristocrats or the illegitimate daughter of a peer.  

I have enclosed a series of pamphlets from some academic seminars I have attended in London. Recently I also visited the British Museum and was, at last, able to view the Rosetta Stone. It is a marvelous piece of history. If anyone can crack the code of Egyptian hieroglyphs, I am sure it is you. Next time, Cat travels to her London modiste, you must travel with her. If I am still in town, I will escort you to the British Museum. 

I am sure there is little more I will enjoy than watching you gape at the treasures it holds.

Best regards, 

Dryden

3 July 1808 

Bleumoor Park, Kent 

Dear Lord Dryden, 

I am wretched! I had meant to reply to your letter days ago, but Lizzy and Charlotte are, as ever, incorrigible little darlings.  

Thank you for your kind words. They have certainly soothed my troubled mind. It is merely an unorthodox situation for which Miss Clearwater never prepared me. If matters do not fit what I know, I have a difficult time accepting them.  

I actually laughed aloud at your guesses on my parentage. French aristocracy? How amusing! I would surely die of shock if it turned out to be the truth. How would one orphan girl even go about finding out her parents? 

I must say that I have read those pamphlets over and over again. They are nearly in tatters. I find myself green with envy that you are able to visit these places that offer such a wealth of information. As for the Rosetta stone, I shall pretend I did not read that or I will surely grow mad. It has always been one of my biggest desires to see it in person as well as the Greek antiquities that Lord Elgin acquired.  

Catherine has already visited London a few months ago to order new gowns, so I fear a trip will not happen for some months yet. If it is to ever happen, I will gladly take you up on your offer.  

You are far too kind, my lord. Is the heat as unbearable in town as it is here?

Faitfully, 

Miss Olivia Fairfax

10 July 1808 

London

Dearest Miss Fairfax,

I find myself to be just as wretched as you are in responding to post. If you were as desolate as I am in waiting for your letters then I must apologize heartily. I wait anxiously every day for a letter for you. When my valet, John, does bring me one, my day is instantly a great one.