Tuesday, July 20, 1971

An excerpt from a short story I wrote set in the universe of the American Royals series

 

  • There are so many arriviste baronets here in the UPA,Julie. Vallemeras of Popayan,though he wishes you to create an Earldom for him there. That cretin Merryweather in Jonesboro. Felicia Shinn in River City,Iowai,but in her defense her family is one of the top River City families. Your friend Ellie Nash might wish a subsidiary barony if Port Hope isn't enough for her.

  • True,Jeff,but have you ever known Ellie to be overambitious? You’re sweet on her,aren’t you?

  • Yes,but that’s beside the point. Before he died Dad wanted to betroth me to her.

  • I’d be willing to honor that contract if it’s already been made and Ellie consents to it. If not I can have Maria Anderson make one with Russell Nash and email it to either of you two. I love Ellie almost as much as you do,though not in that way,and I’d love for her to be part of the family. And with Congress’ consent I can create you as Prince of Ontario,so you’d doubly benefit!

These Are Not My Beautiful Stories

  Summary: The chapters within are outlines for both future stories I’ve got planned (in the case that I never get around to writing them) a...