Epistolary (Letters)

The Epistolary phase of *Good Society* is when each of the players writes two letters from characters they control to another player's character. What follows is a list of the letters written in each episode along with a brief summary of the contents of the letter.

## Episode 1

Mr. Myles Hammer to Mr. Raleigh Addison - Raleigh's uncle disapproves of his conduct and illicit activities, but acknowledges he had the foresight to leave the event at The Adderwood Estate before engaging in such behavior, sparing the family any further embarrassment. Myles also acknowledges he heard Mr. Theophilius Wilmott was also in attendance, and seeing as he did not hear about Theo's conduct, assume Raleigh's cousin behaved himself at the event.

Mr. Erasmus Cockburn to Mr. Grover Shelton - Erasmus heard rumors of Grover's work on a "masterpiece," belittles Grover's painting ability and suggests he might arrive in Tonsham to check up on Grover's paintings.

Mrs. Mildred Addison to Mr. Theophilius Wilmott - Written as a doting aunt, Mildred writes to Theo asking for him to stop by and visit her for tea, expressing some concerns about his apparent relationship with the Countess.

Ms. Vernice Keating to the Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice - Vernice considers herself above the idle gossip in Tonsham and dismisses the rumours that the Countess and Mr. Shelton are secretly an item. However, to quash such rumours, Vernice suggests the two of them spend more time together.

Mrs. Annette Shelton to Mr. Grover Shelton - Grover's mother leaves him a note concerning rumours she's heard from her ladies' club about him and his patron, the Countess. She urges him to stay professional, and also doesn't want to see him with someone who "so confoundedly flouts money at every step of the way."

Ms. Aurora Keating to Mr. Raleigh Addison - Playing up on the rumours that the two of them are not-so-secret lovers, Aurora suggests to Raleigh that the two of them have a little fun and play into the rumour. She also suggests hiring Grover to do a painting of the two of them, which would assuredly be better than the current masterpiece he's working on.

Mr. Raleigh Addison to Mr. Theophilius Wilmott - Raleigh suggests to Theo that they have not spent enough time together recently and invites him to a "small get together" in the coming days.

The Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice to Mr. Raleigh Addison - The Countess expresses real interest in attending the "gathering" that Raleigh alluded to, confirming that if it is indeed happening she will be in attendance.

Mr. Theophilius Wilmott to various, including the Countess - Theo returns acceptances to his aunt and cousin for tea and the party. In his letter to the Countess, he thanks her for inviting him to the event at the Adderwood Estate on behalf of the Church. He reminisces about when they were younger and things were simpler. He hopes they can spend time together again soon. His letter includes a pressed bluebell flower.

Mr. Grover Shelton to Mr. Erasmus Cockburn - Grover refutes the rumours about his masterpiece but assures Mr. Cockburn that his skills are up to snuff. He suggests that if Mr. Cockburn is coming to Tonsham that he seeks patronage from the Addison family, implying Raleigh would be a good subject for Erasmus' own "masterpiece."

## Episode 2

The Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice to Ms. Vernice Keating - The Countess politely berates Vernice for not spending enough time with her, tells her about all the fun things she's done without Vernice there, including her invitation to the upcoming "gathering" at Raleigh's. Rose suggests written correspondence would be the best way to further develop their relationship.

Ms. Vernice Keating to the Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice - Vernice is pleased to receive letters from the Countess, is happy to know she's able to amuse herself in the "small, sleepy town" that is Tonsham. She assures Rose that the time they spend together is the highlight of "otherwise pleasant afternoons." Vernice hopes the Countess enjoys herself at Battenmour; she's heard Raleigh's parties are entertaining, though she's never been herself, and people are hesitant to share details of what goes on at such things... Vernice hopes to go on another ride with the Countess soon.

Mr. Theophilius Wilmott to Mr. Raleigh Addison - Theo thanks Raleigh for the invitation and confirms he'll be in attendance.

Mr. Grover Shelton to the Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice - Grover idly wonders about the possibilities for their relationship (in response to the Countess' Positive Reputation Condition that everyone wants to court her). He also informs her that Raleigh has taken an interest in his art and may take up more of his time. The Countess destroys the letter in a fire.

Ms. Aurora Keating to Mr. Grover Shelton - Aurora thanks Grover for coming to paint herself and Raleigh and enjoyed their conversation. She invites him to paint a more intimate painting of herself as a gift for someone.

Mr. Grover Shelton to Ms. Aurora Keating - Grover accepts Aurora's invitation, eager to paint someone in such a manner.

Mr. Theophilius Wilmott to Mr. Grover Shelton - Theo reaches out to Grover, having heard from the Countess that he might be available for commission work. He would like Grover to do some work for the Church, as well as alluding to some personal business.

Mr. Raleigh Addison to Mr. Theophilius Wilmott - Raleigh drops a backhanded compliment that Theo's penmanship has improved. He will be honored to have Theo at the revel, believes Theo will find the event illuminating. Raleigh encourages his cousin to make himself presentable as the Countess will be in attendance. He closes out the letter wondering if the church is still as musty as he remembers.

The Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice to Mr. Theophilius Wilmott - The Countess thanks Theo for attending the garden party and his wise counsel in matters of the heart. She mentions that the Reverend Samuel Hammond's visits have been fewer of late, and as she and her sisters are always in need of religious counsel, she implores that should Theo find himself free he ought to visit.

The Marquess Mortimer Spice to an associate, a certain Colonel - The Marquess thanks the Colonel for her recent correspondence. He's surprised that word of his eldest daughter have reached the Colonel, but reflects that he shouldn't be too surprised as she is the most lovely and dutiful of daughters. He'd be honored to have the Colonel at their estate, perhaps arranging an introduction to his daughter.

## Episode 3

Mr. Myles Hammer to Mr. Theophilius Wilmott - Having heard of Theo's recent expulsion from the church, Myles offers Theo a recently vacated servant's room at his estate. He is clear he is only offering lodging, no allowance or anything else.

Mr. Theophilius Wilmott to Mr. Grover Shelton - Theo once again reaches out to Grover, wishing to formalize a commission request. He also informs Grover of his recent change in residency, and wishes to meet up soon.

The Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice to Mr. Raleigh Addison - The Countess thanks Raleigh for inviting her to his gathering, saying it was "most entertaining." She invites him and his entourage over for brunch as she's heard rumours he is "most interested" in speaking to her.

Mr. Raleigh Addison to Mr. Theophilius Wilmott - Raleigh apologizes for the stunt he pulled at his party, leading to Theo punching him. He's also heard for Theo's recent residency woes and offers him one of the many, many, *many* rooms at Battenmour if he'd prefer that to staying with Myles Hammer.

Madame DuPont to the Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice - Having overseen the Countess meeting with Theo in the hedge maze at Raleigh's party, Madame DuPont blackmails the Countess and wishes to meet to discuss terms.

Colonel Annabelle Breyer to the Marquess Mortimer Spice - The Colonel appreciates the Marquess' invitation and is very interested in further ingratiating herself within Tonsham. She's recently taken up residence there and even attended a party at the Addison estate, finding the activities and company most illuminating. She confirms her interest in securing an introduction to the Countess.

Mr. Raleigh Addison to the Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice - Raleigh accepts the invitation to brunch and confirms he would like to discuss things with the Countess. He promises to keep the matter quiet so that they may discuss in full discretion.

The Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice to Madame DuPont - The Countess finds the content and forwardness of DuPont's letter intriguing. She invites her to a brunch so that they may speak more about these matters and a possible "business proposition."

Mr. Theophilius Wilmott to Mr. Raleigh Addison - Theo apologizes for his behavior at the party, agrees with Raleigh that their incident should be water under the bridge. He thanks Raleigh for the offer of housing, but confirms he will be staying with Myles Hammer for the time being.

Mr. Grover Shelton to Ms. Aurora Keating - Grover confirms an appointment with Aurora for her intimate portrait. He also thanks her for her company at Raleigh's party and asks if she might like to spend more time together, perhaps without Raleigh around.

## Episode 4

(Episode 4 saw two Epistolary phases as well as the introduction of a new player, leading to far more letters than previously)

### Phase 1

Mr. Raleigh Addison to Mrs. Mildred Addison (currently in London) - Raleigh writes to his mother to let her know he's been taking care of the estate but wishes to speak with her about some urgent matters regarding the estate and arrangements he wishes to make.

The Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice to the Marquess Mortimer Spice - The Countess leaves a note for her father letting him know that Vernice has made her intentions to propose known to Rose and wishes to speak with the Marquess. She knows she has no right to it and the Marquess is under no obligation to do so, but she hopes that he'll let Rose know his answer before telling Vernice.

Mr. Theophilius Wilmott to Mr. Myles Hammer - Working as one of Hammer's gardeners, Theo leaves an expense report on supplies used. He includes a suggestion for sourcing their fertilizer from the Adderwood Estate.

Mr. Grover Shelton to Mrs. Annette Shelton - Grover leaves a note for his mother, letting her know that he's drowning a bit in high society; too many commissions, too many people who flout their wealth. He may need to adjust his priorities to keep things under control.

Colonel Annabelle Breyer to the Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice - An introductory letter, the Colonel informs the Countess that the Marquess has asked Annabelle to call upon the Countess multiple times, but the Colonel prefers to have someone's permission before calling on them. The Colonel lets the Countess know that based on what she saw at the gathering at Battenmour, the rumours of the Countess' beauty are greatly underwhelming; ever since seeing her at the party Annabelle has been thinking of Rose and wishes to meet her properly.

The Marquess Mortimer Spice to the Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice - The Marquess is concerned about the note the Countess left him. He wonders why she would show trepidation at the news of Vernice's proposal and wants to know if they should discuss matters. He would never wish for her to be with any partner who does not bring her the utmost happiness.

Mrs. Annette Shelton to Mr. Grover Shelton - Annette lovingly berates Grover for leaving a note, a waste of ink and paper, and next time he should just speak to her in person. She lets him know that if he needs a break, he should just take one, he doesn't need anyone's permission. She admires his passion and potential to make an honest living, but he shouldn't stretch himself thin to do so. If he needs help keeping up in his work, she used to do some painting of her own.

Colonel Annabelle Breyer to the Marquess Mortimer Spice - The Colonel gives the Marquess an update on the construction of the textile mill she'll be operating, as well as confirming she's reached out to the Countess so he no longer needs to keep asking about that.

Mr. Myles Hammer, by way of servants, to Mr. Theophilius Wilmott - Hammer takes Theo's suggestion on fertilizer under advisement and will reach out to the Marquess to discuss business terms.

The Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice to Colonel Annabelle Breyer - The Countess has heard of the Colonel from her father, is intrigued to receive a letter directly. She invites the Colonel to brunch.

Mr. Raleigh Addison to Mr. Myles Hammer - Raleigh admits it's been too long since he's spoken with his uncle, hopes he's doing well. Raleigh wishes to address his uncle's concerns about his behavior; he respects his uncle's suggestions and will endeavor to uphold them in the future. He wishes to show his uncle how seriously he takes these matters and wishes to go hunting together (or something) soon.

Mr. Theophilius Wilmott to Mr. Grover Shelton - Theo invites Grover out for drinks.

### Phase 2

Colonel Annabelle Breyer to Mr. Theophilius Wilmott - Writing to her childhood friend, Annabelle says it was lovely to see Theo again, hopes to rekindle their friendship as well as discuss landscaping matters at the Colonel's residence, the White Stag Estate.

Mr. Grover Shelton to Ms. Aurora Keating - Due to rumours of Aurora spending a lot of time with Amelia Spice, the next-eldest Spice daughter, Grover is unsure of where he stands with Aurora. He asks if she still wants that intimate portrait.

Mr. Erasmus Cockburn to Mr. Grover Shelton - Mr. Cockburn has heard that Grover's workload is "becoming more adequate" and hopes his skills can keep up. He'll be in Tonsham shortly to catch up on Grover and hopes to meet up for a drink to "compare notes," as the commoners say.

Mrs. Mildred Addison to Mr. Raleigh Addison - Raleigh's mother has heard the rumours of his spending time with and interest in the Countess. She hopes this isn't in retaliation to her cutting off his funds. She can only pray that he comports himself properly and doesn't embarrass the family. If anything comes of this "friendship," he is to inform her immediately.

Mr. Raleigh Addison to his many associates - Raleigh informs everyone that until further notice there will no longer be any "engagements" at Battenmour, claiming his mother to be in poor health. He will be in touch as soon as the next gathering is able to be scheduled.

Ms. Aurora Keating to Mr. Grover Shelton - Aurora has no idea what Grover's talking about, invites him to the Keating chateau at his convenience, whenever the lighting is best.

The Marquess Mortimer Spice to Colonel Annabelle Breyer - He thanks her for her work with the textile mill. He asks her how she enjoyed the luncheon he threw in her honor and offers his services in furthering her connections and introductions within the community.

Mr. Raleigh Addison to Mr. Theophilius Wilmott - Raleigh sends Theo a letter with a date, a time, and Mr. Hammer's estate, saying they should speak.

The Honourable Countess Rosamund Spice to Colonel Annabelle Breyer - The Countess hopes the Colonel enjoyed the welcome luncheon, was pleased to finally meet and speak with her. She confirms her father's open invitation to visit the Adderwood Estate and includes a personal invitation to brunch, wishing to get to know the Colonel better outside of a party atmosphere.

Mr. Theophilius Wilmott to Colonel Annabelle Breyer - Theo returns Annie's sentiments about seeing each other again and agrees to come visit to catch up and work on gardening.

Mr. Grover Shelton to Colonel Annabelle Breyer - Having made arrangements to do so at her welcome luncheon, Grover reaches out to Annabelle to see when she's available for a portrait session. He's very eager to paint his muse.

Colonel Annabelle Breyer to the Marquess Mortimer Spice - The Colonel reassures the Marquess that she had a lovely time, that his daughter is lovely, and she seems to be taking kindly to her, so he needn't worry himself.