Source Unknown
Found in PEH Transcription Collection
Esquimalt, B.C.
August 19th [1892]
Dear Mr. O’Reilly
It is only right that I should write & tell you what has been going on here. I have had to go home on account of my promotion, and found myself quite unable to conceal any longer from your daughter what I had felt for her for a long time past – Yesterday had seemed to understand that my affection for her was in every way reciprocated.
I find today however that though her affection does not seem to be lessened, it fails to bring with it any such happiness as no doubt it should – I have therefore, with much regret, released her from her promise, and at the same time she does not mind my making inquiries in the future as to whether she may not at some time discover that there is a happiness to be found associated with myself – I do not propose that my letters to any members of your family should be frequent and I do not intend to write to her. I’m afraid that it has come too suddenly upon her, & that I am still somewhat unknown to her, & I am very sorry that I am compelled to go to England. I need not say what an honour I should have esteemed it to have been able to find a wife in a girl who seems to me to combine all that is sweet in disposition, and noble in nature. I trust you would have given your consent had I been in a position to ask for its, & I should be very glad of a reply from you on this point, looking as I still am to a happier future. Will you kindly address to the
Naval & Military Club
Piccadilly London
I must take this opportunity of thanking you for all your kindness to me in Esquimalt, & now wish you a respectful goodbye.
Believe me
very sincerely yours
Harry Stanhope
Back to 1892 Correspondence
This collection of letters has been digitized from an earlier transcription project and is for informational purposes only. This transcription has not been verified against the originals. Researchers interested in these letters should consult the original documents housed at the BC Archives.