<em>Dearest Louis,<br/><br/>Forgive me for the long delay in my writing. I was... quite mistaken about my father. Despite the precautions I took in an effort to ensure he would not disown me.. He has.<br/><br/>Thankfully I was able to play upon the mercy of my uncle.. Whose holdings are independent of my father's. Now I work to bring myself closer to my cousin, the current heir of the family. My own father will have no legitimate children.<br/><br/>The hours have grown longer as I've come so close to term. A child will be born soon, Louis. At the very least now I know it will live in a safe house. My station is.. reduced. Where before I was without station, but living in the comfort of a noble.. I now am a servant, or will be when I'm no longer with child.<br/><br/>I'm grateful though, if it means I can raise our child in a safe atmosphere. Perhaps in time I'll live more comfortably again, if I can earn the favor of my cousin.<br/><br/>The doctor says it will be a week at most before the babe is born.. Perhaps a bit longer. I will send word to you again when time allows, but it is not often I'm alone. Now I've a friend among the servants in this household though.. Making the courier of my correspondences one I trust much more than the previous one.<br/><br/>I love you, Louis. That will never change.<br/><br/>For now, though, I need rest.<br/><br/>Be well in my absence, my Love.<br/>Ellen</em>