Dearest Miss F, This is to tell you a piece of news I know you will rejoice at. I am Engaged to be married to Lady Betty Lytton, Lord Lytton's eldest daughter. Perhaps you will have heard it before this reaches you, but I think you won't mind hearing it from me again. I am so happy, dear Miss F. and think myself so lucky to win such a prize. But you shall judge of her for yourself. Send me your blessing and that will crown perfection! I shall be at Addison Road on Friday. Will you tell Mr Chittender? Ever affectly your GW Balfour.
Paper has, 'RYS BLACK PEARL' printed on it in blue ink and 'Off the mouth of Southampton waters' added by hand.