Middle+Ages+Letter

Dear Son, The death your mother Matilda of Flanders came so suddenly. I feel as if my time with her was too short. I feel like I focused too much effort on my work, and not enough on her. I wish not to make that same mistake with you, I wish to spend more time with you son. I miss her terribly so and it is my hope that in being with you, the pain will be eased if only the slightest bit. It seems like yesterday I was fighting at the battles at Hastings. Harold’s army put of a good fight, but they were not match for me. I received the English crown soon after the battle on Christmas Day you know. That war lead to advances in the technologies of warfare. My troops had skilled archers and good care for the wounded. I know your mother was proud of me during that time. She was always there for me when I needed her most. I know she will be looking down on our family from above. I wish I had the chance to go back and change things though. I know I have spent most of my reign trying to secure my power and I regret it. If only I had spent less time on reforming England’s political organization and strengthening royal power. I have to say the Domesday Book was by far one of my most memorable ideas, but I would give everything up to have just one more day with your mother. I am nothing without her. She was my world. I am sorry to bring all this sorry upon you. I am in shock at the moment. I know what your mother would have wanted for me though, I must go on. I need to live life again and enjoy it. I know it will be hard, but I am determined to be happy. It saddens me to know that I must not dwell on this matter. I will go on! I hope to see you as soon as possible son. Your father, William I