A Letter to Mr Dumas

Recently I have been feeling somewhat guilty over dropping of ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ for slightly less serious books during this work intensive season. Dumas is a wonderful author and it feels uncomfortably like cheating when I read something else. And so, I have written him a letter. I hope he understands.


Dearest Alexandre,

First and foremost in this letter, I wish to ask for your forgiveness. You are most pleasant and cultured and I truly love you dearly, but I have to confess that admittedly, I have been not been faithful to you. I knew I could not keep this from you, you being too dear to my heart, ever since we first met I knew we were meant for each other. It all started that night, when we began to feel cold towards one another. We sat together, but nothing passed between us, it only worsened with time, soon I barely saw you and when our paths did cross, there were only brief exchanges and then more horrid silence.
Then I met my old childhood playmate again. We sat together on the veranda and talked of his exploits, his tales offered me reprieve from the sorrow that had gripped my soul, and I was entranced. Whilst you were buried in some study or another, we walked together, exchanging affections. I confess to you, I was infatuated. But I remembered you, my betrothed and was overcome with guilt. I cut off all forms of contact to my old friend, and now I write this letter to you.
I was a fool to forget you; all there is left to do is ask your forgiveness for my indiscretions. Alexandre, my love for you is like an eternal flame, although for a moment the flame cooled, it didn’t die and the burning embers, the essence forever remained. I implore you, forgive me, and let us meet again, our passion renewed.

With love and affection,

R.