Chapter Text
William Collins to Charlotte Lucas
My dearest Charlotte Miss Lucas future companion of my married life,
I have arrived safely to the humble abode which shall be our future place of utmost felicity, until such time as we may ascend to our ultimate happy abode when unhappy circumstances for others which I will not dwell upon as it is not something upon which a proper Christian gentleman should.
But I digress as I wished to assure you first of the reaction of the right honourable Lady Catherine de Bourgh, who as you know is our most noble patroness, to the news of our upcoming felicitious union. While expressing some astonishment at my not gaining a bride from among my cousins, she was assuaged when I elucidated the many ways in which you would excel in the role of humble clergyman's wife. There is your full knowledge of the management of a kitchen as well as your excellent grasp of pie making and knowledge of poultry which will make us an example to my parishioners by how well maintained and productive our chickens will be. And once the season is propitious your gentle care of my household will allow me to improve the gardens to a greater extent.... [And the letter goes on at length on every detail of his spring planting, including every plant and layout and how Lady Catherine has approved of each. Omitted to spare the reader the details Charlotte was not]
.... And I know you will be pleased to hear that Lady Catherine has in her magnificent condescension advised me in the placement of shelves in the closets as a sign of her approval of our marriage and a gift of her infinite foresight.
I look very forward to the day when you may see all this for yourself.
Your most humble and pleased future husband,
William Collins
Charlotte Lucas to William Collins
Dear Mr. Collins,
I am pleased to hear of all the arrangements of the parsonage. Lady Catherine does seem to be a most involved and condescending lady. I am pleased that she approves so much of your garden arrangements for I too believe a man's character may be most fully expressed in the care he takes of his land. As a servant of the Lord, it behooves you to be an example to your parishioners, and I feel proud yet humbled to be a helpmate in such an endeavor. It is good that our wedding date is soon, so that we may properly prepare for the spring season.
In all sincerity,
Charlotte Lucas