19 August, 1887
Dearest Clara,
The temptation to leave home grows stronger with every passing day. I firmly believe I would be better off without my natal family, and that they would be happier if they had naught my combativeness to deal with. The temptation comes as a result of the rising tension in the household. Even father's absence has failed to soothe the feelings of impending doom that have captured my mind. I grow wearier every day, and more irritable at that. I am unhappy and alone in my own home, for every interaction with my family members — including Araminta and Julius — is teeming with uneasiness.
Whatever should I do, Clara? Should I leave home at the risk of dooming my chances of finding a husband? Home feels less and less safe every day; staying here might lead to my premature demise if any conflicts were to grow out of hand. Would I have a place inside your home, or would my presence be a burden? I cannot imagine roaming the streets as a penniless, homeless beggar — even my conditions while living with the Drapers were far more comfortable.
Whatever should I do, Clara? Should I leave home at the risk of dooming my chances of finding a husband? Home feels less and less safe every day; staying here might lead to my premature demise if any conflicts were to grow out of hand. Would I have a place inside your home, or would my presence be a burden? I cannot imagine roaming the streets as a penniless, homeless beggar — even my conditions while living with the Drapers were far more comfortable.
— Miss Annabelle Scrimgeour —
@'Imogen MacFusty'
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