I wanted to do a simple, sweet, canon-story and this has floated around in my head for a while. Letters between our newly weds. Hope you enjoy xx

1.

May, 1925

Dear Mrs. Hughes,

The journey was an uneventful one, and I was relieved to find the house stands in better condition than one would imagine after so many months closed up, and now without a skeleton staff to maintain it through the winter months. There is dust, of course, as you might expect, and everything needs a thorough going over. I have drawn up duties for the week ahead and, with a good wind behind us, things might just be in place for the family's arrival a week on Wednesday.

London is as fast-moving and exhilarating as ever, and the streets throng with artists and entertainers and those looking to indulge in all the history and education such a city has to offer. I myself am hoping to find Thursday afternoon free, if this is the case I may take a sojourn in one or two of the close-by museums before things become too hectic.

I have yet to open Ulysses and I am still somewhat sceptical that it is the type of novel I will enjoy, though I accept your argument, if I have not even read a chapter I cannot judge – and so, I will, as they say, give it a go. I wonder if you have had chance to read 'Queen Victoria' yet? I found it such an enchanting book.

I hope all is well at Downton and you yourself too – I wish nothing more.

With fondest wishes,

Your husband, Charles Carson.