3 October, 1820 My dear Kitty, How wonderful to hear such cheering tidings of your first weeks in this new life! America and your husband clearly agree with you, no matter the doubts and fears you left behind in those English hearts that love you so well. I have loved seeing you blossom in the eight years since we became sisters, and it is England’s true loss that New York will enjoy your full bloom. Your sister Lizzy sends her regards, though I am certain you will hear from her and Jane so regularly as to hardly miss them. She has been so kind at letting my little school take over this wing of the house, and she even takes the children on expeditions in rain and sun alike to fill their lungs with fresher air than even the grandest Pemberley room can offer. I must confess that I have never