Aw... this is beautiful. Well done. I like the way you treat the characters and the relationship with the complexity and dignity they deserve (I really dislike this ff idea that Mary's secret about Pamuk was the only thing keeping her from saying yes - far too black and white!). The tone is also lovely - very still, but with strong currents running beneath. Skilfully done. :-)

That was lovely! Very touching! I loved the idea that Mary sent the letter before he propsed. This made me smile and tear up a bit. I hope you continue to write more Downton Abbey stories!

I can't express how beautiful this fanfiction was. The most accurate character's study I've read so far. What you described captured their essence, the essence of their relationship, so clearly, so beautifully, so painfully correctly. This: "You were the first person who encouraged my better side without demanding it, who accepted my choices as my right to make, even if you didn't agree with them. Even if they hurt you." was a beautifully put thought, and so so true. That is exactly how things are, but I had never seen them with so much clarity, I never could phrase it. Everything about this story was spot on, and deeply touching. I've been moved to tears, because you've described the two seasons of their story revealing the raw truths behind it. Wonderful, thank you so much for sharing.

I've read this a couple of times, it's so sweet, and true to the characters. I loved Matthew's reply. Perfect.

This was wonderful, I really enjoyed it.

Oh I loved that! Absolutely loved it! Beautifully written, and so very, very true to them both. And I adore that she sent the letter for him to see *after* the ball... and his reply! Perfect. Thanks so much for sharing it.

This was gorgeously written and everything that I so badly wanted to get to see Mary communicate to Matthew.

Beautiful and very sweet!

Awww. A very nice insight into Lady Mary's character and how she loves Matthew. I also think the similarity you note between her and Lord Grantham is wonderful - neither their love for Matthew nor their sense of honour allows them to do anything but want the very best for him despite the cost.

Wow, I made a little low whining noise in my throat as I started crying reading this story. So beautiful, so evocative, so them. Even in happiness, there is sadness and regret.

Both of their letters were so bloody perfect. Well bloody done.