Page 4: your youngest sister’s absence — her conversation is witty, her taste exquisite, her painting beautiful. I do hope Lydia and Wickham’s remaining in Newcastle did not cause you too much pain. While I am grateful that you have kept my confidence on that matter, I am sorry that my past indiscretions deprived you of your sister’s company. While my brother will continue to help them out of his devotion to you, he has closed Pemberley’s doors to Wickham out of affection for me. For myself, I was rather pleased at how little I felt hearing his name, these 18 months after our break. By your mother’s many reports, he looks well, your sister is the picture of happiness, and I think nothing more of him once the conversation turns to other topics. I cannot help but worry for Lydia, but I hope with all sincerity