My dearest daughter Eleanor,
A glorious time with dear friends as we celebrated another "Last First Class Dinner on the Titanic," October 2, 2021. The fact that the date coincided with the Captain's birthday made the event even more splendid with revelry. You would have so enjoyed the evening yet I know you have so much to plan for your upcoming nuptials with your beloved Fitz.
Guests included the Astors (Madeleine looked stunning dispite her delicate condition and the Colonel looked relaxed and dashing as always - damn him!); Mr. Guggenheim with his "partner", the lovely and talented Mme Leontine Aubart (Ninette is a marvelous conversationalist - I'm just sorry we didn't have the time for her to entertain us with some of her songs, and I must say that old Benjamin was quite entertaining all evening); the Thayers (Marian and I are a fright when we are together - laughing so much you'd think we were in 3rd Class while Mr. Thayer displays tremendous dignified patience at our antics); and last, but certainly not the least, the "unsinkable" Violet Jessop, who provided such tremendous help to the chef and crew.
The evening was warm and clear so our esteemed travelers began by roaming the Promenade deck, enjoying the views. Dressed to the nines and exhibiting all the glory of First Class life, we all laughed and toasted and told stories of high adventures on land and sea, all the while enjoying 10 courses of the finest cuisine accompanied by exquisite French and American wine and spirits. It was lovely having the musical talents of Mr. Hartley and his musicians nearby although they did tend to play "Nearer My God to Thee" a bit too often.
I am pleased to announce that all parties departed without incident into the early morning hours, satiated both in body and spirit.
My darling girl, your father, brother and I look forward to seeing you soon. Here's a toast to old friends, new friends and a bright future ahead for us all.
Warmly,
Your Mother, Mrs. Eleanor Widener
