To: Wilhelm HI Bleek (30 January 1862)

To: Wilhelm HI Bleek (30 January 1862)

Correspondence

A letter from Jemima Lloyd to Wilhelm Bleek, sent from Pimlico in London and dated 30 January 1862 (continued until 4 February). Jemima is delighted by the early arrival of Wilhelm's letter, but the strain of waiting affected her health. She reflects on past misunderstandings, her misinterpretation of his feelings and the pain his letter caused. While pondering the philosophical aspects of love, Jemima recollects their first meeting, her initial impressions of him, their growing friendship and her realisation of her deeper feelings. Jemima writes that she sees him as her "own dear husband" and gives him permission to say anything to her as she feels she is his future wife. She recounts what she told Lucy about him and revisits their painful past. She updates Wilhelm on her spinal illness, Dr Russell's advice and her stress over his awaited "answer". She also discusses her "religious disabilities" and mistakes she made with her aunt, as well as other more enjoyable social interactions. She acknowledges obstacles to their union but is sure of their "deep true love".

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1. Jemima is waiting for Wilhelm's "answer" to her letter of 4-5 January (in which she responded to his October declaration/proposal letter). [See C8.10 + 11] For Wilhelm Bleek's declaration/proposal letter of 31 October see C4.7. 2. There are photographs of Reverend Woolley, Mrs Fisher and Dr Russell and family. See Photographs and Portraits on this website.