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Dearest Shell,

Your jade earring with the filigree silver. I pictured it on your ear. Then I pictured the side of your head and the wind-paths of hair. Then your face. Finally all your beauty.

Then I remembered your suspicion of beauty’s praise, so I praised your soul, yours being the only one I believe in.

I discovered that the beauty of your eyes and flesh was just the soul’s everyday clothes. It turned to music when I asked it what it wore on Sabbath.

                        All my love, darling,

LAWRENCE