Work Text:
My dear Lisa,
If you are reading this letter, then I was unable to save myself. Entailed in this letter is a full explanation of why I locked myself away, and I hope it can give you some closure.
It all began the night of September 13th, after our engagement party. I was disheartened by the Board’s rejection of my request, so John and I visited an establishment called the Red Rat in order to distract me. There I met a lady named Lucy Harris, and she gave me the answer I was searching for. I knew where I could find a subject for my experiment.
I could use myself.
I went home late that night and began my experiment. I administered myself the formula and was immediately consumed by pain. When the agony ended, I had transformed into a different man. This more wicked man named himself Edward Hyde. He immediately sought out Lucy, with far more vile intentions toward her.
Once I transformed back into myself, I locked myself away. I did not know exactly what my new dual nature would lead to, and I wanted to ensure the safety of those around me. I know that my distance these past few weeks has hurt you, and I want you to know that that was not my intention.
I have given this letter to John, along with a revised will making Hyde heir to all my possessions; this new will was made in order to give me the ability to continue my work even if Jekyll should be consumed by Hyde.
I am truly sorry, dear Lisa, for not telling you myself. I hope you will never read this, but I fear that Hyde may become more powerful than I can even imagine. I wanted to make sure you received the answers you deserved, should I never have the opportunity to tell you myself.
All my love,
Henry