Very Truly Yours — Julie Beard

Gentle Reader,

I know I've committed an unpardonable act. I should never have read Miss Liza Cranshaw's letters. I assure you I never intended to wrong her. But now that I've learned of her desperate straits, how can I ignore her plight?

Miss Cranshaw is the daughter of a wealthy merchant. She is being blackmailed into marriage by a wretched nobleman greedy for her dowry. Naturally, I cannot ignore a damsel in distress -- especially one so lovely and so charming -- and am determined to prevent this disastrous union for her sake, though I must admit she has stirred my soul in ways I had not thought possible.

I am aware of my reputation as a rake and one who has never had more than a passing acquaintance with constancy. And I admit I am a stone's throw away from debtor's prison -- through no fault of my own, I hasten to add. Misfortune, however, is no impediment to heroism. I vow, Gentle Reader, that I will restore my fortune and rescue Miss Cranshaw -- before I land in prison. Just, I beg of you, do not tell her about the letters!

Very truly yours,

Jack Fairchild, Esq.