Dear Ophelia

I know it may seem like you've reached an impasse, but you must understand where your family is coming from. Now before you start skimming through the letter because now you think I'm going to nag you, you must understand that understanding is different from agreeing. You don't have to agree to at least understand and empathize with a person, so please try to understand your father and brother. Love isn't a bauble, it can be a very resplendent and extraordinary thing, but there is a large difference between love and lust. Yet, when love is created without the right intentions it can be quite lackluster and your family doesn't want you to settle for anything that doesn't complement your undoubted flamboyant mind. Hamlet, unfortunately, doesn't have the luxury to have love sub rosa because he is the prince of Denmark, this means he is obliged to do what is best for the state rather than be an apostate and indulge in his every whim. But pay heed to my advice when I say not to be lugubrious, though this may not be your one true love you will undoubtedly find a gentlemen who will honor you and love you the way you deserve. Your family does not want to stigmatize Hamlet because in truth he is a man with great probity and bravado, but the do not want you to get hurt. They truly do have your best interest at heart and they do trust in you. Just because they tell you how licentious this affection can be, it doesn't mean that is how they think of you. Ultimately it is up to both you and Hamlet to adjudicate whether or not your affections could burgeon into something more and I have faith that you won't let matters of the heart beguile your rationality.

Best Wishes,

Samantha