The Letter

My Lady,

Greeting to you and your Lord. Know that I have always held you in the highest of estimations. You gave me the greatest gift possible, your daughter, my heart’s desire. She has been the guiding force in my life. All my thoughts are governed by her regards.

And so, it is with the greatest of sorrow that I write of your daughter’s decision. The wounds upon her body are healed and her thoughts run clear once more. However, there is a part of her that no longer responds to life here. Although she lives, a piece of her has already departed for that which we all seek. Her heart, once given fully to me, now dwells in the West.

She is determined to find refuge in the one place where she can be guaranteed it. My pleas have fallen upon deaf ears. Her children cannot sway her. She fears this land as never before. It is will great sorrow that I have given her my blessings. I would rather see her gone and know where she is, than have her die and dwell in that place where I cannot follow.

Know that I have not done this lightly. You, who have gone through numerous trials of your own, know that my heart breaks at her leaving. I would follow her now, if I could. But, there are other factors that bind me here, our children not the least of them. There are grave things afoot that cannot be ignored. I have promised my love that I will join her when events allow. Until then, she will wait where healing can take place.
She requests you accompany her to the Grey Havens. I beg of you, do not hesitate. Her pain is such that nothing Arda contains will ease it. These months have seen a decline in her will to live. Before she passes beyond our world, I would see her where she can regain her spirit. She will wait only for you, but do not make her wait long. She longs to quit this land and be at peace. I honestly believe that only in Valinar will she be at rest.

We leave in three weeks. That will give you time enough to return your answer and make your way here. Her children have all gathered and will journey with us. Yours is the only other presence she requires. I await your answer.

Ever yours,
Elrond of Imladris.