A Miller’s Valentine - Letters

Photography by Bolling Willse, Sr.

A note from the Mill: We found these letters tucked away in the cellar, giving us new insight into the burgeoning relationship between a Miller who worked at Manor Mill and a woman who was visiting from England. The story of the Miller’s Valentine is here.

December 1, 1910

My Dearest Emily:

I found your address from the postmaster at the Monkton Hotel. He was quite ornery. I thought I would send you a thank you for the orchid. I think you know that it is my favorite kind of flower. I like the way the light brightens the petals in the morning.

Perhaps you can reply that your journey has been safe.

Fondly,

John

January 4, 1911

Dear John

I was delighted (and relieved!) to hear that the orchid did not suffer from the quick bite of the cold. I was decidedly quite worried about that. My fear persisted throughout the long journey home as I wondered how you might interpret a dead orchid!

In the event that you see the orchid in your busy day, I hope it reminds you of the cheeriest moments of our time together.

With love,

Emily

January 28, 1911

My Dearest Emily

The orchid sits next to me while I tend to the grinding millstones. I carry it to my room at night, where it’s not so drafty and know it’s warmer. Orchids are quite stout, despite how fragile they might appear. But I still keep careful watch.

The snow keeps falling and has grown deep. I had hoped you might come upon a proper snowfall when you were here, though I wonder how your feet would manage without good boots. You never liked when your toes would be so much colder than the rest of your body. I should find time to pick up wool socks for you.

My best regards,

John

February 18, 1911

Dearest John -

Oh my! You do remember the funniest of things. The boat ride was nothing if not cold, and I felt I would forever stay as frozen as the arctic itself. The moment I arrived, I went fast to my favorite shop and purchased two new pairs of stockings. I would like very much to show you!

I am flattered that the orchid joins you in your day. Would I give quite a sum to swap places for a spell. The rain is dreary here, as is my mood. Never would I imagine that I might show envy for such a small flower, but I do.

With love,

Emily

March 7, 1911

Dear Emily

I feel a touch silly that I walk to the Monkton Hotel most every day to see if a letter has arrived from you. The postmaster must think I’m quite mad, but I pay him no mind. He spends his days in everything but his own business.

Nothing to report but of the loud clattering and continued problems of the smaller belts. I’m hoping to be better soon so that I can make some repairs. It has been a long winter. Would that I ask: will you be coming back?

Very truly yours

John

March 25, 1911

My dearest John

Your most recent letter left little detail - what ails you that you wish you were better? I am making arrangements to come back now. And with that, I may see you soon. I confess that my heart flutters so.

Yours,

Emily