I’m so shocked by your generosity. I really don’t quite know what to say. I’ve, of course, heard of things like this happening to people. But never in my wildest dreams did I ever think it would happen to me.

Normally I would pretend to resist slightly or make up some nonsensical excuse as to why I couldn’t possibly accept your offer.

I’m afraid I’m at such a loss for words I can barely think of anything to say other than “yes.”

I’m a bit hesitant to give out my private information over email, but I know full well you won’t be able to rob me. There’s hardly anything left in my account. I spent all I had left yesterday on groceries for the rest of the week.

I didn’t know how I was going to pay the month of June’s rent to be quite frank. It was the first time in my life I had thought of doing horrible things to actually get a paycheck.

My bank routing information is as follows:

[omitted]

Once again, I don’t quite know what to say.

I’ve been called many things over the years, but “speechless” has seldom been one of them. I don’t quite know what I could ever do to repay you for your kindness, but I’ll think of something. Maybe we’ll be able to meet up one day so I can properly thank you in person.

Again, thank you for your kindness. It means so much to me.

Your friend,

Agnes

EMAIL FROM AGNES PETRELLA

Date: 06/01/2000

Time: 10:46 a.m.

From: Agnes Petrella <agnes_in_wonderland_76@[omitted].com>

To: Zoe Cross <crushedmarigolds@[omitted].com>

Subject: THANK YOU!

THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART!

I just called my bank and they notified me that the total sum of one thousand dollars had been wired to my account last night by a Ms. Zoe Cross.

I don’t quite know what to say.

I never thought anything like this would ever happen in my life.

I owe you so much. I can’t believe this is real.

Thank you. A million times.

Your friend,

Agnes xoxo

EMAIL FROM AGNES PETRELLA

Date: 06/01/2000

Time: 11:07 a.m.

From: Agnes Petrella <agnes_in_wonderland_76@[omitted].com>

To: Zoe Cross <crushedmarigolds@[omitted].com>

Subject: Re: THANK YOU!

OK. I’ve since calmed down since I sent my last email. Hopefully this one will be more coherent.

I really do owe you so much for your kindness, your generosity, etc.

I truly never thought something like this would ever happen to me. I don’t have to go to bed tonight dreading tomorrow – waking up in a cold sweat and wondering if my check will bounce.

You really have changed my life.