Page 2: only endeared you to me more. It was shame of my father, and of my own inability to save our name. While in Bath, I received word that our estate was to be sold. He lost our home and my happiness both at the card table. Your confession to me proved that you were willing to risk in measures equal to your love, and so certain was I of your feelings for me that I knew I had but to say the word and you would, without hesitation, form an unprofitable connection with my now destitute and cast-outfamily. I loved you to such a degree that I could not bear to ask that of you. Believe, Georgiana, that I know now that what I considered an act of love was in fact a grievous error. It was pride, and a lack of trust in your knowing your own happiness. You were ever its best judge and most ardent champion, and you did not need me to make that choice for you. I regret it to my soul. After breaking our attachment, I saw no reason to remain where he or you were. I joined surveying teams and exploratory missions. I took to the sea, to the mountains, and to the