Naturally I was aware of the settlement the duke was offering you, though I was not privy to the precise terms, nor did he consult me regarding them. I hoped his acceding to your wish to be independent indicated a softening in his attitude towards you, and was encouraged enough to raise the possibility of my visiting you at Powerscourt. The duke made it very clear that there is no prospect of this. Against my better judgement I attempted to persuade him to change his mind. Not only did my appeal fall on stony ground, I fear it aroused his suspicions, for he challenged me on the subject of our correspondence. I could not tell a blatant lie.

The duke was outraged and ordered me to cease all contact forthwith. My dear daughter, though it breaks my heart to write this, for the foreseeable future I must ask you to confine your correspondence to your eldest sister. Victoria will give me your news, and will relay back my own. You have fought too hard for your independence for me to risk it being withdrawn. I pray you understand, and pray, too, that this is a temporary situation though how it is to be resolved, Lord knows.

Margaret, your decision to make a new home in America fills me with terror and admiration in equal measure. That you signally fail to explain your reasons makes me smile. Your heart has always been your true guide, and you have finally recognised this. For that I commend you, but why, oh why must your instincts compel you to embrace danger? Your letter is full of optimism, when you have every reason to feel trepidation. You confess to fear, but at the same time you dismiss it. I cannot decide whether this is brave or foolish.

If something happened to you while you are so far away, beyond reach

As your mother, I must always live in fear for your safety

The travelling companion proposed by Lady Julia will, I trust, afford you some protection and provide good counsel. I do hope that you will take pleasure in each other’s company, too, and become friends as well as companions.