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Lexden House, Mayfair
27 June 1812
Eleanor,
Your presence is required in London. Return to Hereford Street with all due haste.
Lex
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MAYNE CASTLE, ESSEX
27 June 1812
Dear Lexden,
I am disheartened to hear from you after these six years. There is nothing of interest to me in London. I am quite content to remain here in Essex, thank you all the same. Though you did not inquire, I will happily inform you that our son (his name is Henry, if you will recall) has reached his fifth year in good health and recently learned to read.
Eleanor
~~~
28 JUNE 1812
Eleanor,
Perhaps you misread my note. I did not invite you to London. Do not ignore my commands again. Present yourself at Lexden House by Saturday.
Lex
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28 JUNE 1812
Dear Octavius,
I thoroughly understood your previous note. As I mentioned when you banished me, I want nothing to do with your despicable self. As per our agreement, I shall remain here until my dying day—or yours, whichever comes first.
Your disobedient servant,
Eleanor
~~~
29 JUNE 1812
Madam,
At this time, I have no desire to uphold our agreement. I require the presence of my wife in London. If you do not arrive by the first of the month, you may rest assured that your son will be immediately—and permanently—removed from your care.
Your lawful husband,
Lexden
~~~
29 JUNE 1812
Sir,
Obviously, the years have wrought no changes to your ignoble nature. Henry and I are packing our belongings as I write this. We will arrive in London in two days.
Your wife—in name only,
Eleanor
~~~
30 JUNE 1812
Eleanor,
It brings me satisfaction that this matter is now resolved. I do not, however, see any reason for the boy to accompany you. He will remain at Mayne Castle.
Yours,
Lex