"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife."  

Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen


My Dearest Friend,

I had to write this letter immediately as I have had the most exciting news to share with you.  I have just been to Jane Austen's estate in Hampshire with my friend, Ms. Cook.  It was a most enjoyable, but all to short visit indeed.  It was a cold and miserably wet day, one which Mrs. Bennet would have been delighted to see HER Jane off to go see Mr. Bingley.  Once inside, however, we found the empty costumes most pleasurable company.  I was invited to perform a short sonata on Jane's piano, and so, with great hesitancy (as one must not be too eager as a lady) I brought myself to the piano and performed a short Clementi sonatina in an accomplished manner, but not too well (as it is well known that a lady should perform well but not overly well).  I would like to send you a token from this wonderful visit, as I know how greatly you admire Jane and her delightful stories, but I am afraid I do not have your place of current lodging.  Would you mind terribly informing me of this?

I miss you greatly and eagerly await your next letter informing me of how you and your lovely sisters are getting along of late.

Affectionately,
Elina