I commissioned some local workers for a simple structure of wood and clay with some small windows, high enough not to be looked into, a thatched roof, fireplace and a heavy wooden door. I built it for Miss Walker, always worrisome about who will see us. It saves her having to be polite to my family on every visit while we itch to be close. I finally decided to call our new little dwelling the Moss House, as after much deliberation on its name I noticed the beautiful green moss on the trees nearby and I look forward to a time when the little house will be overcome with it too. Rather cleverly it keeps us away from them all, and the prying eyes of servants too. It is ours alone. There is just one key to its door, which I carry upon me.

Little do my family know what goes on in our Moss House. Our secret place that no one else is permitted to enter. No one but I, and the woman of my choosing. Our private sanctuary where we can be ourselves, unguarded and unobserved, and fall into each other’s embraces for hours upon hours. My heaven, my haven, my home. How would our families react if they knew? They believe we sit here reading and sketching and exchanging pleasantries. Little Marian’s head might explode with the discovery, though it may well do her some good; I do not imagine she’s ever kissed anyone or even touched herself down there. I should, as the elder sister, speak with her about pleasure and share my knowledge. My, how that would awaken her from her stupor. Or it may be that she is saucier than I could ever imagine? No. Very unlikely.

For a few months now, we have had our kissing and pleasure in our private domain, tucked into the trees, protected against the colder weather and rain the season now brings, but the little thing torments me further every day.

After all these weeks and months together, I need to know how she feels about me and our future together. I cannot invest such time and energy into wooing her and planning our future if she may strike off with another at even the poorest of marriage proposals. I tell her we need to commit to each other, it is only fair. She refuses to give me an answer despite my insistence. I said she could have until my birthday next April, months away, and she promises it sooner, but still delays.