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The next few months passed in a blur of eagerness and excitement for Ginelle. It was almost as if she and Eloise were beloved kindred for they spent every minute of every day together. They spent hours on her lessons, Eloise claiming that she should have had an education at the early age of six or seven. There was much to be learned and Eloise was as ardently to teach as Ginelle was to learn.

Eloise had started with the basics. Ginelle was taught to read and write and than eventually when she mastered that, they moved on to reading. She began with simple material until she accomplished it and moved on to more difficult text. Eloise was amused by Ginelle’s appetite for knowledge and impressed by how quickly she adapted to her schooling. She had an absolute desire to learn and study new and exciting things despite beginning at a later age.

She became well equipped in the knowledge of a domesticated gentlewoman and that in which was required. She excelled in arithmetic and literacy and grew accustomed to polished manners. She had an innate capacity to learn, absorbing all the skills taught to her. She relished in the art of dance and took immense delight in music; she was taught needlework and despite pricking her fingers numerous times she was fascinated in learning something new.

Time all but ceased to exist as the months passed in haste and soon a year was upon them. Along with her wide varieties of education, she was instructed on etiquette and the proper apparel for certain occasions. Eloise kept her well informed on housewifery skills and managing her own estate one day. Secretly, Ginelle vowed that, that day would not come. She vowed never to belong to a man who would control and possess her. The very thought disturbed and frightened her.

They spent much time in the garden, reading poetry and discussing art and music. They attended the opera and when the weather was warm and inviting, they went horse back riding.

Ginelle valued all the knowledge given to her, including every moment she and Eloise shared, delighting in the happiness they shared. Even Lucile was beginning to show signs of warmth, occasionally her thin mouth would lift in a reluctant smile despite her impassive manner. Ginelle had learned much of the older woman who protectively followed in Eloise’s shadow. Lucile cared for Eloise as if she were own.

Pierino was still a consistent fear in the back of her mind, always a shadow, haunting her dreams, reminding her of her self-worth and at times dragging her back to the bottomless pit of oblivion. Every night, her dreams were plagued with sharp, black eyes and large hands, reaching to steal her from Eloise. She eagerly learned as much as she could in hopes that one day she could defeat her demon and be relieved of her nightmares.

20 November, 1814

My dear Dorian-

I pray that you are safe, dear brother and that my letter reaches you in good time. I fear the day that I will no longer receive your letters, though they are a great comfort to my heart but a distinct reminder that you are away. A year has already transpired and much has happened. Ginelle is excelling exceptionally in her studies, her eagerness for knowledge is limitless. She and I have grown inseparable. I find myself adoring her more each day; I dare say we have become much like sisters.

I pray the weather at sea isn’t too dreadful. I have yet to hear of the wellbeing of your crew and if you have found your vessel. I know that the good Lord keeps you safe and guides your path but I am anxious for the day of your return.

With love,

Eloise

5 June, 1815

My dear Dorian-

It is good to hear that the weather is pleasant at sea. Though I have never been fond of traveling, I’m sure the Atlantic is a beautiful sight beneath the sun. I am relieved to hear that you have retrieved your vessel but terribly disturbed that you have yet to hear of your crews’ whereabouts. I will continue to remind you that I greatly disapprove of your journey and I am in constant fear for your safety. Your letters put me at ease if only for a short period of time until I am anxious for the next. I insist you put an end to this frivolous pursuit. I know your pride would not allow it but I’m asking you to allow the authorities to handle the man that which you hunt. I fear the day that you are forever lost to me.

With love,

Eloise

25 October, 1815

My dear Dorian-

The weather here has changed along with the trees. Ives has purchased new laborers for the fields; he keeps me well informed. Ginelle and I went riding yesterday. There was a slight chill in the air but the ride was pleasant nonetheless. Lady Margaret Bennett hosted a ball in honor of Elizabeth’s coming of age. I would like very much to do the same for Ginelle. There has been much gossip about my ‘ward’. I keep her status very discreet. Neither she nor I are concerned with the loquacious ton.

Having her here brings much assuagement of my worry for your wellbeing. I pray every day that your journey is a safe one.

With love,

Eloise

24 January, 1816

My dear Dorian-

Ginelle continues to excel in her studies. I know that you were against the idea of her staying here with us but she has brought much light into my life. You do not know the happiness she gives me.

I’ve seem to have caught a mild cough. It is nothing to concern you with but at times I find it extremely bothersome. Though there has been much frost on the land and I believe I might have caught a slight chill. I am anxious for your return, dearest brother.

With love,

Eloise

14 March, 1817

My dear Dorian-

This will be my last letter to you and it bears unfortunate news. I have kept this from you for some time and please do not be angry with me for doing so but I know the extreme guilt that weighs heavily upon your shoulders and the lives that depend on you, but I’m afraid my condition has worsen and there is not much that can be done. I am very ill and have been for some time. It appears my health has been deteriorating without my knowledge and only recently has plunged for the worst. I struggle now in writing you this letter. I have just recently been bedridden, ordered by the doctor to remain as I am. We are at a loss to the sudden mysterious illness that has claimed my health. Ginelle reads to me every day, her presence is a comfort beyond means but my heart aches for your return. Please, return to me in haste, so that I may spend my numbered days with those I love. I fear time is of essence.

Love always,

Eloise

**********

Nearly three years have passed since she had been brought to the plantation and much has changed. She had been given a formal schooling and taught the essentials of managing a household and the basics of etiquette. She learned to understand novels, plays and even complex literature that she never dreamed of understanding let alone read. She took a keen interest in music and had become quite adapt to the piano. She felt as though she had no limit as she accepted and viewed each task as a challenge to be accomplished. But nothing had prepared her for the devastation of heartache.