Page 2: Ok ok ok the best part: That book Hank’s been writing? Maybe he told you this, but it all started with some old books he bought at an estate sale. When he opened a book of poetry — William Cowper — a bunch of rainbow dust fell out, along with a letter and an old envelope full of seeds, labeled “For Georgiana.” He was intrigued, and went back and bought the rest of the books. More dust, more letters. And our Hank — Hank Ian Shelly — started writing a travelogue about this mystery letter guy: Henry Isaiah Stanhope. HIS letters, HIS book. So, are you ready for the best-of-the-best part? Hank brought me that first letter, and I’ll just let you read it for yourself. I think our girl really did get to have it all after all. I hope Georgiana forgives me, but I took some of the seeds out of that old envelope and I mixed them with some of the seeds and buds Hank brought me from all corners of the country to make some seed paper. Write a note. Plant it in the ground. See what happens. I’m not sure if they’ll still bloom after all this time, but who knows? Potential. For all of us. I’ll see you online for tea. I’ll see you in person someday soon. Maybe Hank and I both will. The world suddenly seems very small, and very wide, and very good. Some say bloom where you’re planted. Georgiana and Henry, I think, would say plant yourself where you’ll bloom. I am, as ever, your affectionate friend, Gemma
by Meghan Winch | Apr 19, 2022