Page 48 of Love, Will

“Dear Richard,

I received news about a publication of sonnets. I do not recall sending you any material but somehow my theatre company thinks I am being published on your behalf.

If this is true, I was wondering what work you are printing?

With thanks,

William Shakespeare”

“Master Shakespeare,

We are almost ready with the folios; the cover is glorious, hand painted by our very own Clary. As you remember, he was your favourite artist. Thesonnets arrived from Titchfield; they were sent by your patron, the Earl.

We received them a couple months ago. Should you wish to add any, we can stop printing for a week or two to give you time to bring your extra words to London.

With thanks,

Richard Fields”

“Dear Henry,

News of your travels and adventures overseas has reached my ears and made me joyous of your good fortune. I wish both you and your family health and I hope the children are happy and growing weIl.

I received word that the sonnets I once wrote to you were sent to Richard Field’s printing house and I hope it is not too much trouble to ask if it was the Earl that dispatched them.

As always,

Love,

Will”

“Dear Master Shakespeare,

Thank you for your kind words. It was indeed I who sent the sonnets to the printer via emissary. I hope you will rejoice in your new publication and enjoy the gold that comes with it.

With regards,

Henry Wriothesley

Third Earl of Southampton”

“My dearest Henry,

I ask of you why? Why would you share our love in a book that everyone can read?

The times we touched, the kisses we shared are all written in those lines which were meant for your eyes, for my muse only.

Does your heart still hold any emotion for this poor poet?

Love,

Will”

“Master Shakespeare,

The papers were found in the study and it seemed fitting to send them to a printer as they represent your great work and must be enjoyed by the world. As your letter unnecessarily describes, the moments we shared are contained in the words, which I did not find the heart to archive or destroy. After all, they offered the most joyous moments of my existence.

Should you wish to stop the printing that is entirely your choice, as the creator of the beautiful work but I would advise against, your sonnets deserve to remain in history.

With gratitude for all those forgotten moments,

Henry “

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