In the present case I am unable to take your view of the bearing which my acceptance of occupation⁠—not enriching certainly, but not dishonorable⁠—will have on your own position which seems to me too substantial to be affected in that shadowy manner. And though I do not believe that any change in our relations will occur (certainly none has yet occurred) which can nullify the obligations imposed on me by the past, pardon me for not seeing that those obligations should restrain me from using the ordinary freedom of living where I choose, and maintaining myself by any lawful occupation I may choose. Regretting that there exists this difference between us as to a relation in which the conferring of benefits has been entirely on your side⁠—

I remain, yours with persistent obligation,

Will Ladislaw.”