Page 3: the pounding of my heart as he walked me back to the party; it only grew louder and quicker the further I was removed from my love beyond the trees. Not shoes, nor mud, nor Mr. Stanhope, nor your dear self could stop me now. We are going to Gretna Green tomorrow. Scottish wildflowers will adorn my hair, and I will wed in my best summer gown with the yellow sash Mamma left me. By the time you receive this letter, we will be beyond your reach and bound by holy matrimony. I hope that someday you can extend to us the love of a brother we both so treasure. Whether you will or no, I must insist on a settlement of my 30,000 pounds. The dowry will be owed to my