Billy's Letter
"Sweet incomparable Elizabeth, what a strange effect you have on my heart! I look back, and in every one point, every word and gesture, every letter, every silence, you have been entirely perfect to me, I would not change one word, one look.
God knows I wish you happy, & when I quit you, or rather when you from a sense of duty to your husband & mother quit me, you shall acknowledge the truth of what I again promise & vow, that no other in word or deed shall ever hold the place in my affection which is & shall be most sacred to you, till I am nothing.
You know I would with pleasure give up all here & all beyond the grave for you. I was and am yours, freely & most entirely, to obey, to honour, love & fly with you when, where, & how you yourself might.
Forever, Your Billy"
Within our film the character Billy writes a letter to Elizabeth, we wanted the letter to look and sound suitable to the period. We decided to create draft letters to get us used to writing in a old- fashioned cursive way and also practice the 'stamp' that we needed to seal the letters with. The stamp was made from a red candle which is what they would use to seal letters in that time period.
Elizabeth's Letter (Won't appear in film)
"My dearest Billy, I write to tell you that my brother, Robert, is at least a little better this morning. We had a long conversation yesterday that has helped him to come to terms with his grief. He knows that I wish for a divorce. Yet, he is still reluctant to give us his blessing.
Robert has asked if you will visit us soon. He wishes to meet you, dearest, and he is very much on our side. I know that my brother would stand by us if we chose to leave England together. If you are certain that you feel able to leave everything behind and seek a new life together please come to me here soon.
Robert has urged me to do what will bring me happiness in life and I believe that I can never be happy without you. However, I could not leave my brother until he is able to cope for himself. I know you have been patient with me and I beg you to remain so until we can take our happiness at last.
Your own Elizabeth"
