View source for Lillian's 1st Letter to Evelyn Woodward

Dearest Evelyn,

Thank you so much for your letter, and the good advice it contained. You are, as always, entirely correct. I’ve come to certain conclusions since the last time we spoke, and as you suggested, the most important part was what I did not want. I did not want dear Richard, nor any of the sorts of married life he offered. I have broken off our understanding, and informed him that he is free to pursue other ladies. Unfortunately, he has said that he intends to wait for me. I can only compliment him on his generosity of spirit, his open mind, and his perhaps somewhat too open heart. At least we parted without acrimony. I do hope he finds what he is looking for.

If you’re at all curious, what Richard thinks he is looking for is a “remarkable” young lady, whatever that means. I suppose Los Angeles is as good a place to find such a lady as any, and probably better than most. If you happen to learn how he is getting on, well, I would not take it amiss if you would pass such information on to me, simply to ease my guilty conscience. I know that you do not frequently travel in the same circles, so please do not mistake this for a request to put yourself out. I suppose I am merely indulging a sentimental notion that my friends might watch over one another in my absence. I can be terribly silly and impractical.

I must say that I rather like the idea of becoming a “companion for young ladies”. I would like to talk to you more about it when I return from overseas. As Darla and Isabella have decided to accompany Mr. Locksley on this trip, I suppose I will be able to see how well it suits me. I will do my very best not to undo your hard work with them. Thank goodness I have my aunt and their brother to assist me.

If not, I believe I have other possibilities that I can pursue. I am not distraught. My future awaits me, I’m sure. I will be traveling to Thailand and possibly other overseas destinations, in search of intellectual and spiritual stimulation. I expect the journey to be several weeks at the very least, possibly a few months. I look forward to seeing you when I return.

Your friend,

Lillian