The letter came at an opportune time. Following a long-winded discussion between Jack's father, the board, and some of their business investors, the words "restructuring" and "renovation" to the textile factory tossed around so effortlessly, Jack started nodding off. He, not in the mood to review numbers, plans, or schoolwork, needed the short breath.

He was struck by how simplistic the letter proved again, making him thoughtfully, for a moment, consider whether he had made a mistake choosing this person. At the same time, the letter irritated him; why he was not sure. B. Price's response had this ease of how the words were written. So often did Jack read letters and correspondences of the same looped words written in exacting language that reading anything that sounded like someone was...interesting. It enthralled him slightly.

The letter, reeking of hesitation and beseechment, only intrigued him further. Penned so carefully yet so uncomplicatedly, it reminded him of what Marjorie used to write like when she was younger – plain, simple, a kind of elegance to her words – before Mother started teaching her the proper way to write.

He imagined the writer as plain in overall appearance. Sack clothes. Stringy hair. Hands calloused from farming, or whatever she did during the day. Did she not know she could also stop writing him? Jack leaned back into his desk chair, smirking. He breathlessly chuckled, amused.

He took the afternoon to write back before returning to his schoolwork.

February 2, 1894

Dear B. Price,

Do not apologize for asking questions; my father has said that is the best way to better yourself, for if we do not ask questions, how do we progress? Your questions are entirely valid – the packet explaining the Society's intentions are not well-outlined. From what I understand, the Hutchinson Academic Scholarship Society seeks out candidates who are driven to pursue higher education yet might not have the monetary means, or opportunities otherwise, of doing so. Persons selected for this position generally exhibit characteristics of self-startedness and an eagerness to learn. What is studied is up to the recipient, be it music theory, mathematics, literature, sciences, etcetera.

I must beg you not to apologize for writing and asking. As someone who helped pick the recipients this year, I see it also as my duty to make sure you understand everything needed for the program to operate.

I will warn you now, however, that with each letter written, there is a guarantee that you will receive a response. It is only the right thing to do.

Sincerely,
J. Byrd