16th December

My Precious Darling,

You will hardly countenance what has happened after the incident with the Highwaymen, but I must inform you, regardless.

Werewolves.

Is it not too, too much?  It is for me, that is certain.  I cannot fully recount the horrors; it is too traumatic.  Suffice it to say that there was much blood, some rending of flesh, and an uncanny amount of flying fur.  The smell of gunpowder still lingers.  It is not altogether unpleasant.  I have sent you a picture of my wounded nose, as you may recall.  Only that and my pride took a blow, which is more than can be said for the wolf-men.

I know not how they came upon our house, for it is not their wont to leave the forest, but I returned Sunday night to find them lying in wait for me.  There was a large one, clad in red silks and wearing double golden hoops in both ears, who seemed to be their leader, so it was he whom I targeted first.  Once I had disposed of him, confusion reigned.  I was able to rid the Earth of 3 more specimens before the remainder fled.  I have kept the hoops as a trophy.


As part of my recovery, I have made myself a Strengthening Soup, which you see here.  It was quite delicious!

The Henriksons come to visit this night, and I have not yet told them of the attack, for I want not that they should think ill of our situation in this neighbourhood.  Was it very wrong of me?  I am not concerned for their safety, for once the leader had died, the remaining wolf-men seemed to lose all sense of purpose.  I believe that without him, they will neither re-form their group, nor attack.

Your sister, Katrina, today accepted an offer of employment at the Javanese alchemist's.  She is much pleased, for she is in great need of more money now that she has been accepted into the College to which she earlier applied.  She will learn much about the Dark Art of Brewing, I am certain. 

Your sisters and brother are now on a break from their studies, and I look forward to collecting you tomorrow!   Oh, what Fun we shall have!  Until then!

All My Love,

Mother

10th December

Hello My Darling,

I still revel in not being lost in the cold, dark wood.  I have treated myself to several cups of strong, hot coffee since my misadventures there.  I thought it therapeutic, too, to take up some knitting, and so I made a festive Christmas hat for Durango as you can see here:

I did not have a pattern, but I think it looks well on him, and he was happy to have it.  He asks, though, that I make a shirt the next priority, and I quite agree.  Pippa and Kiki have said that they would like to have some hats, too, so I shall have to use my time wisely.

I was so happy to hear that your week is progressing quickly.  Have you perchance gotten another glimpse of Miss Moomintroll?  I should dearly love to see a photograph of her, should the opportunity arise.

This morning, Wheatley took it upon himself to climb to the top of the Christmas tree and remove the star by means of some violence.  It crashed down onto Rupert's cage, which must have startled the poor creature, though he did not come out to investigate.  I have not yet replaced the star, for I believe I should devise some means of securing it, first. 

I must cut today's epistle short, as I will be seeing you this evening, and I must prepare to take the carriage to fetch George from his lessons.  I am glad that the fog has gone, for that way lies through the Glimmer Forest, and I have not yet fully recovered from the disaster in Martin's Wood!  Mrs Burberry has informed me that trained alligators are become highly sought after as traveling companions for the purpose of security.  Have you heard of this notion?  I certainly had not!  I should imagine the alligators to be nearly as dangerous as the Highwaymen - nay perhaps more!  She did specify that the beasts are carefully schooled, but in my experience, one can never be quite certain what an alligator is thinking, and I should not deem it an advisable solution.

I come to fetch you tonight!  (Never fear - you will not find an alligator upon entering the carriage!)

All My Love,

Mother

9th December

My Dearest Girl,

How can I apologise for my criminal neglect to write these many days?  Perhaps you will forgive me when you understand the circumstances which led to my prolonged silence.

Highwaymen.

I was beset upon by Highwaymen of the most rancorous nature imaginable! On Monday after luncheon, I took the carriage with the intention of paying a visit to the Armstrongs, but I went the long route through Martin's Wood, for I wished to collect some of the Morel Mushrooms which grow there, as you know.  I was wearing my Blue Silk, which is a shame, for that was my favourite gown.  I had come almost to the place where the mushrooms grow, when I heard a blood-curdling scream, and the carriage jolted to a stop.  The door was wrenched open, and rough hands grasped me and yanked me from the carriage.  I was in shock, My Dear, I will admit it.  I had been quite incapacitated before I knew what was happening, and the Ruffians dragged me through the wood - no doubt toward their Awful Lair.  But then, though my hands were secured behind my back, my years of practise asserted themselves and I succeeded in thwarting my attackers by use of the Fighting Arts of the Orient.  As I had only my legs to rely on, my poor gown was quickly besmirched and torn, but my attackers soon measured their lengths upon the forest floor.  I am not ashamed to say that I was too squeamish to put an end to them, but I did leave them lying there in a stupour.  I freed my hands and ran to put as great a distance as possible between myself and them before they could become sensible, but I was lost.  Lost in the great expanse of Martin's Wood!

I wandered the Wood in hopes of finding some familiar landmark, but to no avail.  I had no hope of taking my bearing from the sun, for this last sen'night we have been beset upon by a thick grey fog which creeps in as evening draws near, and which seemed even more impenetrable in the woods.  Finally prudence took hold, and I stopped in a hollow, collected some quantity of wood and attempted to build a fire.  I still had my reticule if you can countenance it!  The ruffians had taken it, but before running, I collected it from one of the bodies as it lay there stupidly on the ground.  Inside the reticule was my Firelighter - the one with the novelty image of the pickled cucumber.  I had brought it purposely to show to Miss Catherine, as she had expressed a desire to see it.  If that seems to good to be true, you are nearly correct.  Try as I might, I could not start a fire.  I was at the point of weeping with frustration, when finally, Finally, the leaf mould caught and I was able to feed twigs of increasing size to the flames.  I was eventually able to build a large fire, and I was very grateful for the warmth, for my fingers had gone quite numb!  It occurred to me then that perhaps I could use the fire as some sort of signal, for dark had closed in by now.  And so I fed the fire until it was roaring furiously, and I had to keep well back.  By now I was hungry and thirsty and exhausted from the dragging about of so many large logs.  I had qualms that the Highwaymen might be attracted by the light of my beacon, but I weighed the risks and found that the benefits exceeded the dangers.

I was able to keep my fire blazing for some hours before I began to think that I must sleep, when who should come to my rescue but Alex Armstrong!  I don't know that I have ever been so happy to see another human in my entire life.  He kindly refrained from comment on my terribly disheveled state, and took me to his manor, where I was well fed and given a hot bath and a change of clothing.  Heaven!

The Armstrongs kept me until the next evening in order to ascertain that I was fully recovered, then brought me home in their carriage.  Your Father has taken a group of Armed Men to Martin's Wood in order to reclaim our own carriage.  He believes it can be salvaged.  Oh that the same could be said of my Blue Silk.

But now you will understand, and perhaps forgive my long silence.  I look forward to collecting you tomorrow! 

Much Love,

Mumsy

3rd December

My Dearest Girl,

Your sister Katrina has been accepted to the college of her dreams.  We are all of a flutter!  And that is all the post you shall get for the day, for I am off to pick up George, and then I shall come to collect you My Dear!

I leave you with this completely unrelated animated historic record:

All My Love,

Mother

2nd December

My Darling Daughter,

 I hope this letter finds you well.  All are well here at home.  We have had a small quantity of snow, but nothing much.

The Armstrongs have encouraged me to add a strengthening regimen to my day, and so you must expect to find some unusual equipment around the family home upon your return.  Most notable is a device which allows one to strengthen the arms and torso by means of lifting oneself up by use of the arm muscles alone.  It is most invigourating!

Today, as I found that I was not required at the Armstrongs' manor, I busied myself with the making of something for the Little People.  Here you see my final creation - a Pillow with ruffled edge and a Pocket containing a Bear.

I passed by Mrs Bennett's house today and took the opportunity to peek in at the windows in hopes of catching a glimpse of Sebastian there, but to no avail.  If she has managed to ensnare him, she is keeping him well hidden.  At least for the time being. 

I received a package from the Orient the other day, but have not yet opened it, being undecided whether or not to wait for Christmas.  It is possible that it might contain some clothing for Durango, but I am uncertain.  As things stand, he will still be in desperate need of clothing when his ship arrives.   I know that Sebastian would be able to whip up something appropriate in next to no time were he here.  Alas.  I have thought about  talking to Mr Wooster about parting with his man, Jeeves, but it would seem to be a waste of time, for I feel that they are quite devoted to one another.  Perhaps, though, his man could put me in contact with a good agency.  I shall continue to think on this.

I am afraid I have not much more to write on today, but I shall be seeing you tomorrow and am glad of that!

Your Loving,

Mumsy

Post Script

My Darling Girl,

You will never believe it.  I have located Durango!  He is in Scotland!  I made arrangements for his immediate passage as soon as I had notice, and he took ship today.  He should arrive within a sennight.  Now I am all in a frenzy of sewing, for it appears he has no wardrobe and I cannot allow him to go about naked as a savage (or a Pict!)  I have found some patterns that should look quite wll on him.  I believe he will be in need of a pair of spectacles, too, but that will have to wait until his arrival to make sure of their strength.  I am so pleased that he will be here in time for his first proper Christmas with us.

The mitts for Prussia are going more slowly than anticipated, but I have nearly finished with the first.  I have only 2 rows of ribbing left and it will be complete.  I think the arrangement of the colours very pleasing, and I believe the second will go more quickly than the first now that I have some experience with the unusual method of construction. 

~You see here another fragment I had thought to have finished.  Save me from myself.

1st December

Hello My Darling,

December has arrived in a sluice of showers.  Actually, it's more of a dreary drizzle, but regardless of what one calls it, the out-of-doors is rather damp.

Your sister Katrina was interviewed for a job at the Town Library today.  All seemed to go well.  We shall see in time what will be the result.  She has been stalking the Post Man in eager anticipation of an acceptance letter from her college of choice, but as they were only supposed to be sent out today, none, of course, has been forthcoming as of yet.

The Armstrongs are faring well in their clean-up of the ruined part of their domicile, but there was another attack made yesterday.  The perpetrator was seen to be wearing a white suit as he fled the scene.  Nothing much was hurt, but three of their holly bushes were somewhat trampled, and there was evidence that he was attempting to place some explosives near the main entrance.

Also, I have had some success in the breeding of the dragons.  I had initially thought to sell the offspring, but I find that it is difficult to do when they are so beautiful.  Perhaps I shall let them mature first.  That will bring up their value at any rate.

Rupert had a nail trimming and a bath today.  Whilst he was thus occupied, Bentley crept into his cage and began devouring his foodstuffs.  Previously, he had occupied himself with terrorising Knitler.  At least he is busy.

Can you discern how dull I am feeling today?  I think perhaps it is the weather.  Or perhaps the fact that I did not sleep too well last night.  I should dearly love to stay in this evening, but it is my night to teach the Fighting Arts of the Orient, and I have a class to take as well.  I know that I will enjoy it, but right now I desire nothing more that a cup of drinking chocolate and a seat by the fire with my knitting.

I despair now of Sebastian ever arriving.  I am quite certain that he was waylaid by that overambitious Mrs Bennett.  I have half a mind to employ a combination of stealth and my Fighting Arts to procure him for myself!  I even thought - only briefly - of employing Mr Kim Blee to aid me in this pursuit, but there are some levels to which no one should ever stoop, no matter how desperate.  Please remind me of this when next you are home.  And speaking of that - I come to collect you in only 2 days' time!  Hurrah!

I shall try to have more news for you next time.  In the mean-time, I shall be exceedingly lazy and leave you with this wonder of scientific achievement:

All My Love,

Mother

24th November

Hello My Dear,

The excitement continues, as The Armstrongs' house suffered some extensive fire damage today.  They have lost the entire West Wing to the flames! I know not how this came to be, but some are beginning to whisper that they believe Miss Pettigrew to be the source.  Nonsense, I say, for she would not hurt a fly.  In fact, I have known her to actually collect compromised flies and feed them on sugar water.  No.  It cannot be her doing.  I suspect that it is someone who is trying to set her up as an arsonist.  Someone with a bone to pick.  Can you not think of a person who fits that description?  Shall I say it?  Yes.  I suspect it to be Mr Kim Blee.  Do you perhaps remember how incensed he was upon her taking up residence in the property which was, until so recently, her home?  Everyone knew that he had planned to buy it for years, and then to find that it had been left to her by Mrs S upon her death - well,  I was in town on the day that Mr Blee learnt the news, and he was most terrifying to behold.

The Armstrongs are well.  No one was hurt in the fire, and all 13 cats spend their time predominantly in the East Wing, and as such were completely unaffected.  Miss Olivier says that only one of them deigned to raise his head from a nap when the fire wagons came.  There is probably some joke to be made about the Cat and the Fiddle and fiddling on whilst Rome burned, but I have not the energy to disinter it at present, for I have done enough digging with the Armstrongs today.  To be honest, I felt quite useless.  Both Mr Armstrong and his strapping son are capable of throwing around timbers as if they were matchsticks. I caught even the youngest girl, Catherine, lifting out a grand piano from beneath the rubble!  But, though I was insufficient to most of the lifting tasks, I believe that I was able to offer Mrs Armstrong some succour at least.  And I did spend rather a lot of time soothing the cats, though they did not really seem in much need of it.  I provide photograhic evidence here:

I am quite looking forward to our excursion to the art gallery tomorrow.  The Armstrongs have entrusted me with a family portrait which they are lending to the gallery as they feel that it will be safer on those premises for the time being.  I hope that you will be able to meet us at the gallery cafe for luncheon!

Well, My Sweet, I find that I am exhausted from the exertions of the day, so I shall make my ending here, content in the knowledge that I will see you tomorrow!!


All My Love,

Mumsy

19th November

Hello Dearest,

I must apologise profusely for my failure to write yesterday.  I believed myself to have plenty of time, yet before I knew it, the day had gone.

I began by helping our friend R to navigate through some difficulties.  As you know, since the murder of his beloved wife and the kidnapping of his son, he is distraught and in much need of assistance.  Together we spoke with his man, Codsworth, but sadly we were unable to glean any information of use.  I am currently engaged in helping him to establish a new residence, as the old one is quite destroyed and, I am certain, holds too many painful memories for dear R.  When we first began our work, we did meet with some hostility from a very unfriendly woman (and her mongrel dog - I suspect it was rabid!), but through perseverance we were able to overcome the obstacles they presented.  We have begun to rejuvenate a property which R discovered, and have put by some store of goods for his use.  I am glad you were not there to see the size of the vermin that we met with upon beginning our work!  I cannot imagine how they became so overgrown!  I was put quite out of countenance for a moment, but there was no time to ponder the meaning of such creatures, for they were terribly aggressive and we were forced to fight them as if for our very lives!
 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

23rd November:

Oh My Dear, I am sorry that this never made it to the Post!  Our dear friend R came under attack and I took up arms and ran to help him!  I shall enclose this fragment with the letter I am sending today!

Your Loving,

Mother

17th November

Good Evening My Darling,

I must offer my apologies for writing to you at such a late hour.  It has been a day fraught with activity.  And napping.  Yes, napping.  I'm afraid to say that I was up rather late last night, for first I was engaged in chasing the infernal inflated ball, and upon returning home (at a shockingly late hour!), I became employed in helping to solve various and sundry conundrums for Mr W. Heatley.  It saddens me to tell you that for some time, he was not in full possession of his faculties, and I judged it safer to play along with his notions of what should be done rather than trying to make him see reason.  I finally accomplished his ultimate objectives this morning, and I believe him to be tranquil and perhaps even sane once again.  At any case, he has removed himself from the immediate vicinity and no longer poses any threat if his reason should chance to abandon him in future.

Today I did chance to create some quite delicious patties from quinoa and black legumes.  You see one here with a morsel of asiago cheese gracing its surface:

The mixture produced rather more than I was expecting, and I believe there will still be some here from you to try upon your return home, should you so desire.  Then again, it is possible that George will devour a large quantity of them.  If that is the case, I can certainly recreate the receipt with ease.  It needs only:

1 1/2 cups quinoa (cooked in 2 cups water, some powders of both cumin and Golden Broth)
1 can of "refried" black legumes (in all truth, they do not appear to be fried even once, let alone a second time, but I shall not quibble.)
1 hen's egg (I suppose that this distinguishes it from a duck's egg or a goose's egg, for we all know that roosters do not lay!)
and Seasoning (seasoned salt, and spices common to the Spanish Territories)

The resulting mixture is then formed into patties which are fried in a quantity of olive oil for perhaps 5 minutes per side.  They really are terribly good.

I only have one more piece of news to share, and that is that on my return home from instructing and studying the Fighting Arts of the Orient this night, I discovered that one of the cats had strewn my knitting project (the mitts for Prussia, you remember) all over the sitting room.  Oh shock!  I count myself very fortunate that the yarn was not severed, but I was mortified to see that rather a large quantity of it had been pulled off the skein and was lying in unfortunate disarray on the divan, the ottoman and the floor, as well as being draped every which way in between.  Had I a decent butler, this could never have happened.  Oh Sebastian, how I long for your arrival!

Well My Sweet, with this I shall end, and hopefully I shall have some more positive news for you on the morrow.  I shall be remembering you in performing the Holy Rites of Wednesday.  Much love to you My Darling!

Your devoted,

Mother

16th November

Hello My Dearest,

There is not much news to impart, but I will tell you that I am still endeavouring to acustom myself to the new manner of operating the plumbing in the kitchen.  It feels decidedly decadent to be able to command a stream of water - either cold or hot! - with the merest movement of a lever.

I was so pleased to hear that you have received approval on your classes for the new semester.  How delightful!  I had wanted to pursue some artistic efforts of my own today, but so far I have been much engaged in dealing with the servants &c.  (Hazel remains much improved!) I hope now, though, to at least make some progress on the mitts for my Prussian friend.  I have had to pull them out and begin again after finding a mistake, the result being that now I must knit with true fervour.

Mr Ho remains at large, and so I spent some time in raking leaves and pulling weeds, but it was a lovely day, and I found that I did not truly mind the exercise.  I discovered that there is some very dry wood put by for a fire or two.  Perhaps we should light the brazier out-of-doors when next you are home if one of the evenings should prove conducive.

I am well pleased with my work over the week end in making a small cupboard of sorts as well as some books for the Little People.  I think they are satisfied, too.  I really must convince Pippa to change out of her pyjama top.  I know not why she insists on continuing to wear it at all times.  I understand that she is rather taken with the penguin, but my indulgence has about reached its limit in this matter.

You may have noticed that Kiki is holding an unusual object.  Your brother George made it today during one of his lessons.  Apparently the students were all instructed (briefly) in the Japanese art of intricate paper folding.  I think he made it exceedingly well!

I hope to have more to tell you tomorrow.  Perhaps I will find Mr Ho, but truthfully, I despair of it.  If it is sunny again, I may well find myself tidying the gardens a bit more. 

I hope this letter finds you well.  I am as always,

Your Loving,

Mumsy

12th November

Hello My Sweet,

Today your sister Daphne and I performed our civic duty through volunteer activities at the Town Library.  The requirement of the day took surprisingly little time, however, and we were home in a trice. 

When we returned home, I remembered to seek out the work of Italian composer Ludovico Einaudi.  I had wanted to find it since hearing a fragment of the piece you will hear featured here:

I am profoundly moved by his music.  Would it not be most wonderful if we were able to attend a public performance of his works?  At the very least, I shall endeavour to find some sheet music to purchase for the pianoforte.

If you desire a more comprehensive performance, you are certain to enjoy this display given at the Royal Albert Hall:

Your brother is of a mind to create an ambience for you using that miraculous engine which he so recently discovered.  I asked him whether he intended to use primarily sounds of chewing and whistling, but he claims not.  I do hope that that is truly not his intention, for I should hate to lose him at so tender an age.

In spite of all the schooling of your sister and the overseeing of the servants, I was able to produce another decoden piece today.  I like it very well.

I know not whether you can tell from this representation, but there is a small homage to Cousin Winry's Apple Pie contained therein.  I have not yet decided the final purpose of the container, but I shall most likely utilise it for the storage of clothing or shoes for the Little People.

Mr Ho has done nothing with the grounds for days, and I begin to fear that he has been enticed away by Bertie W's Aunt Agatha.  What we shall do with all of the leaves that carpet the lawns, I can not imagine.  For now, I think there is nothing to be done, as it is too cold and damp.  In fact, I have had to fortify myself with some drinking chocolate, and a piece of toasted bread with cheese.  I find that they are very beneficial in helping to combat the cold.

I shall have to bundle up very well for the carriage ride, but I look forward to collecting you this evening.

Your Loving,

Mother

11th November

Hello My Darling,

This day finds your father in better health.  He remained at home, the better to rest today, and when he found that he was somewhat recovered,  we took the carriage and accomplished some necessary business.  It was a pleasant, sunny day, and so our excursion was an enjoyable one.

I continue to do contract work for that wizard of dubious sanity, and have received some rather favourable compensation.. To be truthful, I know not his ultimate intentions, but I suspect that he cannot be quite sane enough to make any kind of success, whatever it may be that he hopes to accomplish, and thus I am happy to earn my rewards.

I have made use of some of the new wonderful material that we received in the Post.  It diminishes and thickens in a manner that seems almost magical.  Here you see the results.  It began thus, about the size of my palm:

 then proceeded to curl in a most alarming fashion:

 until finally it flattened and hardened.  The end result is about the size of the bowl of a teaspoon.

 

I shall be conducting further experiments with the stuff.  You may recognise the likeness on the charm.  Pray, do not think me obsessed with this Butler (even if perhaps I am.)   I intend this to work as a sort of summoning charm, for I simply must have him in my employ.

My search for Durango goes ever onward.  I suspect that he is to be found in Korea, but there is no certainty of this.  Do you not think this could be he?

 

If so, then he is to be found at an agency by the name of Little Monica.  I hope to be able to bring him home soon, but I have not yet the necessary funds.

Your sister Katrina has lost her carriage permit and is driven to distraction.  She has sought high and low and everywhere in between, and we now think that there is nothing for it but to order another.  No doubt the thing will make its appearance in some strange place as soon as the new one arrives.

The wind has begun to roar in earnest.  Are you having some of the same?  I would not be greatly surprised to see children and small farm animals flying past the windows were it not so dark out of doors.   

But now I must away to bed, for the hour is late, and although we purchased new candles only today, I must extinguish them before they are quite used up!  I look forward with all eagerness to collecting you tomorrow!

Your loving,

Mother

10th November

My Dearest Girl,

Today we are beset by much cold rain.  Your father has taken a chill and gone to bed, and I hope that your brother and sisters may be well, but I fear for Katrina and George as they were compelled to go out in this weather.  I have kept Daphne inside so that she, at least, will be safe.

Last night I received a forceful blow to the calf from a Man of Some Size (whilst chasing the infernal inflated ball) as well as a rather startling blow to the face (this by said ball.)  Your father and I did not return home until perhaps 11:30 at night!  Fortunately, today finds me only a little sore.  I believe I shall survive it.

Today, we received in the Post a package containing a remarkable material which, when placed in the oven, is said to diminish in size while simultaneously becoming both thicker and more durable.  One is meant to use it with the automatic printing press.  However, our press (or mayhap our inks) will not adhere to the surface, so I shall content myself by using our artist supplies on it.  Perhaps you would like to make some use of the stuff when next you are at home.

I continue to aid Xiao Xi and Xiao Hong in processing great quantities of laundry.  Truly, I know not how it all appeared so suddenly in need of washing.  I hear their cheerful songs throughout the day, but they have not yet repeated the phenomenon of yesterday.

Oh, I had not remembered to tell you (or perhaps I did in a separate communication) that I received some sad news regarding the New Butler. It seems that his previous employer is of less than honest repute.  I had received word from him of Sebastian's dispatchment, but whether or not The Butler has truly departed remains unclear.  I shall be devastated if I cannot get him, for word of his skill surpasses that of all others.

Today, Mrs Nesbitt (after some help from myself) is cooking a Glorious chicken soup.  (It seemed an appropriate supper for your father as he is convalescing.)   As she was occupied with that, Daphne and I took it upon ourselves to prepare a Potato Dish without the aid of dairy products.  Well, that is not quite the truth, for we discovered that the Cream of Mushroom soup which we used as an ingredient does, indeed, contain some milk, but the sour cream and cheese do not.  Is that not most shocking?  The dish turned out very well indeed, and we shall have to prepare it again this week end.  I enclose a picture of it here:

As you can see, it browned most satisfactorily around the edges, and I cannot find any fault with its flavour.  In fact, we both declared it to be delicious!  I believe it may become a staple for us this winter.

Daphne and I will soon make ourselves ready for our classes in the Fighting Arts of the Orient.  It is not a long ride, and I think we shall be safe from the elements inside the carriage, but I shall encourage your father to stay at home if he thinks of coming along.  I do not believe he will benefit from the exercise in the state he is in.  But with some rest and Eucalyptus Oil to clear his head, as well as the chicken soup for supper, I am convinced that he will recover quite rapidly.

Please check your other communications, for I asked Katrina to send you some information about a Coat which you may require for the winter.  I think it very pretty, but I am not certain whether it will suit your tastes.

I find myself looking forward to Holy Wednesday with much Anticipation.  It seems that this has been such a busy week already, and I have not been able to Write as I would like.  I hope you are well!  Please take care to guard yourself from the chill!

Much Love,

Mumsy

9th November

Good Day My Dearest,

I hope this day finds your Humours better balanced and that you no longer suffer from the malaise which set upon you yesterday.  I was grieved, indeed, to have to leave you in The City in such a state!

You may remember that last week I found Hazel no longer capable of performing her duties.  Fortunately, I was able to attend to her myself, and was greatly relieved to avoid the necessity of calling for a specialist.  However, no sooner had she recovered from her first malady than she was beset by another.  I was able to nurse her through the second difficulty as well, though, and this afternoon finds her up and about and back to her work as if nothing had happened.  In fact, I suspect she is performing even better than before she took ill.  Perhaps the disease had been coming on for some time.

I have already accomplished much this fine day!  When I went looking for our gardener, Mr. Ho, he was nowhere to be seen, and so I took on the task of raking and bagging the leaves in the front garden by myself.  It was not an unwelcome diversion, as the sun was shining brightly, and the air both crisp and cool.  After that I found it necessary to assist Xiao Xi, the Laundress, in working through the mountain of laundry that had somehow accumulated.  We have gotten through at least four full cauldrons already and she is stirring the fifth as I write.  Xiao Hong is kept hopping as she dries all that we can turn out.  During all of this, I had taken a moment to assist Daphne with her mathematics when both servants suddenly and simultaneously broke out into two different songs.  How we laughed! (Never fear; they were in the next room and did not hear us!)

Jet is quite well, and has spent the morning and much of the afternoon atop the Lookout Tower.

And I attempted to introduce Wheatley to the joys of freshly laundered towels, but he would have none of it until I left the room.  Seconds later, he was partaking fully of their warmth and no doubt thought that the idea had been all of his own devising.

Of course, the ribbon had to be present as well.

The afghan that I knitted for the Little People will finally go into the shop today.  Pippa was very accommodating in demonstrating it for me.

I do believe that she is appreciative of having her own bed, as well.

Oh, and you shall be receiving another package with some physick preparations and a little surprise.  I am assured that it will arrive on Wednesday, but then, as always, it is up to your Postal Mistress whether you are able to pick it up before Thursday.  I think you shall like what you find inside very much indeed.

I must go now and attend to Xiao Xi and Xiao Hong, but I shall write again tomorrow.  Until then (and always) I am,

Your Loving Mother

5th November

Hello My Darling,

Well, this is a day that shall not soon be forgot.  I find myself wondering whether Mrs Next-Door started her bonfire early, for this morning, there arrived not one, but two ambulances!  But as there were no fire wagons, I shall assume that it is once again her brittle health that is the cause.

I must apologise for not writing yesterday.  In the morning, I felt very dull indeed, and by the time the afternoon had arrived, I found myself compelled to take the carriage in every direction imaginable in order to collect and deposit your siblings at their various engagements.  I should have found it all too trying, were it not for the fact that Miss Hughes was able to call for some time, and we were able to carry out some contracts together.  I hope to be able to do the same with you this evening.  I find it most invigourating.

I take some comfort from the fact that during all my driving about I was able to make a breakthrough in my story, such as it is.  No doubt you shall hear all about that when I collect you this evening, unless you can stop me from telling you.

Today, Daphne and I shall do our Volunteering work at the Town Library.  I know not what they have in store for us, but I suspect that it will involve turkeys in some form or another, as now that Hallowe'en is past, American Thanksgiving looms large against the horizon.  At this time of the year, one sees infestations of turkeys in every place one chances to look.

On the subject of infestations, Wheatley was in a bit of a frenzy this morning, rushing about so that his toes squeaked against the kitchen floor.  I failed to see the object of his pursuit no matter how I looked.  It is almost enough to make one believe we might have a Pixie problem.

Oh, My Dear!  I received communication from the lady who purchased your clay bird, and she is Delighted with him!  She has named him Chauncy, which I think suits him very well, indeed.  I shall have you read her letter in full when you are at home.  Please remind me to give you the monies you earned from his sale.

In spite of the dullness I felt yesterday, I was at least able to complete a Little Person-sized afghan for our shop yesterday.  I'm not certain that Pippa can be convinced to part with it, however.

I am so delighted by its texture that I am quite of a mind to make a large one for our own use!  Also in regards to the shop, perhaps you would not mind modeling the chunky scarf I made?  I think that our woods would be a nice setting in which to make the photographs.  I know you have not so many trees in The City, but here where it is less settled, Fall hit with a vengeance yesterday.  Leaves were fluttering and swirling every which way, and the colours are simply lovely.  I hope that we can make the photographs tomorrow, for obviously it will be too dark when you are at home this evening.

Oh, and tomorrow George has not any lessons, for it is Credentialing Day, and since neither you nor Katrina have classes either, I shall give Daphne the day off from lessons as well.  Hurrah!

Well, I must attend to the business of the day, and before I know it I shall be departing to collect you!  Until then!

Your loving,

Mumsy

3rd November

Hello My Darling,

What a fright we've just had.  I had begun knitting some mitts which I hope to make a present of to my friend in Prussia, when Katrina let out quite a loud shriek.  I looked up to see an enormous black wasp circling our sitting room.  It landed on the window, and I attempted to capture it in a glass, but it muscled its way out past my hastily contrived lid and proceeded to fly all the way up to the top of the room, where I could hear its carapice bouncing off the ceiling as it went along.  It finally alighted on an upstairs window, and I was able to capture it and carry it outside.  I believe I may have to take a tonic for my nerves, or at the very least, a strong cup of tea.  How I wish Sebastian Michaelis were already here.  This is precisely the nature of things that butlers are meant for.  Your sister still has not left the divan since first she sighted the creature.

 I enclose a photograph of the progress I have made so far in the mitts.  I do not know whether I can hope to have them done in time to ship to Prussia for Christmas, but I shall do my best.  Truly, I know not how it came to be November quite so suddenly.

We had a lovely time with Miss Hughes yesterday and wanted only your presence to make the afternoon ideal.  The one hiccough in the affair was that we had not enough dough for baking biscuits.  I had been certain that we had plenty, but discovered all too quickly that we did not, and so took the carriage to Mr Kroger's market in an attempt to procure more.  (Again the lack of a decent butler rears its head!)  Sadly (as is all too common these days), Mr Kroger's stock was depleted and he shall not have more until Wednesday at the least, the result being that we were forced to make our own.  It was very vexing indeed.


Last night I chased the infernal inflated ball again, but I believe I comported myself better than I have done earlier, and so am satisfied with my performance.  Tonight brings more of the Fighting Arts of the Orient.  I shall be well exercised!

Miss Hughes hopes soon to place an order for some knitting wool and has asked whether you desire any for projects of your own.  If we purchase a sufficient quantity from the merchant she has discovered, we shall not have to pay any shipping fees.  I am afraid I may well be able to make up the necessary amount on my own, but do let me know if you desire any for yourself.

I have recently been able to view videographic records of our new butler's service at his current place of employment.  I must say that I am terribly impressed with what I have seen to date.  I find that Sebastian, too, is acquainted with the distinguished gentlemen whom we met at Mr W. E. E. Bronson's ball, and I was very pleased to see that he conducted himself in a highly respectable manner toward them.  His arrival here cannot come too quickly!

Oh, I have not told you that Hazel is ill!  So far, I have been unable to discover the cause of her malady, for in part, I find that she suffers not at all, and yet she is unable to complete even the simplest task.  I know not what to do with her.  I hope I shall not have to bring in a specialist, for that would be an unwelcome expense.

George must stay late at his lessons today, but Katrina will fetch him for me.  Daphne remains perhaps a bit obsessed with her little friends from Swimming Club.  They are such a presence that I do believe we shall have to construct a pool for them here.  Later, she, too, will attend the classes in Fighting Arts of the Orient with me.  I am well pleased that she has mastered enough to assist me in teaching the junior lessons!  Tomorrow, we may attempt to electrify her Little House.  I will admit that I am not a little intimidated by the prospect.  Wish us luck!

I hope your lessons are continuing pleasantly.  I look forward to seeing you in two days' time!

Yours,

Mumsy


Post Script: I have finished some contracts for our dubious acquaintance Mssr. Merasmus, and have received from him a (hastily contrived) masque of the Engineer, and a rather awfully besmirched apron.  I think he could at least have presented me with a clean one, but I have lent it to my fire-loving friend, who seems quite taken with it.
 

2nd November

Hello My Darling,

I must apologise most sincerely for not writing much this week past.  As you know, I was deep in the throes of preparing for the arrival of the Henriksons, and the servants were being quite difficult.  I am very pleased to announce that I have finally procured the services of a new butler.  He is known by the name Sebastian Michaelis, and he comes most highly recommended.  In fact, the impeccability of his reputation is such that I am certain you will find his name to be known even among your fellow students in The City.  Unfortunately, he is finishing out a contract abroad, so I do not expect his arrival until the 14th of November at the very earliest, and possibly as late as the end of the month.  In the meantime, I attend to the chaos on my own, and eagerly await his arrival.  As you can see, he appears to be most capable, even when faced with unusual circumstances.

My Dear, I so enjoyed our time together at Mr W. E. E. Bronson's ball!  What a delightful event that was.  I found the guests of honour to be most humble and charming.  What perfect gentlemen!  And I was delighted that your father, brother and sisters could all return with us to the estate on Sunday.  I am already looking forward to next year's ball.

I took some more items to the shop today and found that I had a not unwelcome sum waiting for me from goods I had sold previously.  Eighty dollars and twenty-five cents if you can countenance it!  My pocketbook was positively bulging!  I have put the money away with the intention of using it on adoption fees for Durango when I find him.  And you, too, have some monies that I shall keep safe for you, as one of your clay birds has sold!  Is that not most pleasing?  I have already taken it to the Post Office and shipped it off.

I would like to write more, but I have mountains of laundry to attend to and the servants in the washroom will need direction.  In addition, Hazel still needs dragging about.  I do wish she were more self-motivated, but what can one do?  Also, after my success at the shop in town, I am quite inspired to discover more items to be sold.  I look forward to seeing you again in three days' time.

All my love,

Mother


Post Script: I have just received a communication on The Instrument from our Dear Friend, Miss Millicent Hughes.  She will be calling shortly.  I must prepare!

27 October

Dearest Mother,

I am sorry that I have not been able to find the time to compose a letter to you until now. My studies are progressing quite well and I find myself having been struck a gentler blow than usual this week in regards to home-work. I may even have a moment or two to spend drawing whatever I please. I find this a pleasant surprise - all too often I want to throw my hands into the air and cry "I cannot draw, for I must draw!" &c., &c.

I am very glad that you sent with me those small parcels of vitamin preparations, for I fear that I may be coming down with some sort of malady. I do hope it is not Dutch flu, Russian flu, or any of those other horrible geographic variations of malaise. If all goes well, I will be healed by the time we are to attend Mr W. E. E. Bronson's ball this Thursday and Friday to come.

For luncheon today I dined on one of the preparations which we procured from Mr Kroger this past week-end - a dish of Spanish origin, I think. I found it quite agreeable; indeed it reminded me of those delightful poches chaudes which were common fare for us several years ago.

Last night I made a sojourn to the Taubman estate so that I might have one of my pieces of art reproduced in physical form. The journey was quite agreeable - true, the carriage track is bumpy, but it is not at all unpleasant, and I love to see the town at night with all its lantern lights.

I do not think that I have any more news for now, but I will keep you up to date on any future occurrences. I very much look forward to seeing all of you in scarce over two days' time!

Lots of love,
Molly

26th October

My Darling,

It was wonderful to have you here for the week-end.  And what a busy week-end it was!  Now we are back to the drudgery of the weekdays, though I feel sometimes that I would benefit from the addition of a few more hours' time to each day in order to accomplish all that I would like.

The servants are getting on with their work again, but I must supervise and yes, even assist, as usual.  I was pleased with myself for hauling Hazel (the floor cleaner, as you must remember) all the way up the stairs, for she could do with losing a few pounds!  Once up there, she performed admirably, so it was worth the trouble, but it is rather daunting at the best of times to navigate the stairs with her.

Our preparations for the arrival of the Henriksons is going well.  I have ordered a guest bed to be delivered so that Nathaniel might make use of it.  As you children are all getting older, I fear that the indignity of sleeping on floors will no longer suffice.  I reassure myself that this is a good investment, however,  because I am certain that the bed will also be of great value when your aunt and cousins come to visit.

Bentley and Wheatley have engaged themselves just now in playing with a length of pink and green ribbon.  I know not its origin, but they find it most intriguing.  I do hope it is not from one of your bonnets!  If it is, I shall have to make it up to you, for I cannot bear to take it away from them.

You can see how very pleased Wheatley is with himself for having unravelled the end.  When I arose to capture this image of the two conspirators, I discovered that Bentley had also stolen my knitting from the ottoman.  The small curve of material at the right edge of the image is my work in progress.  I do not find this sort of behaviour particularly helpful.  I begin to think that I shall have to keep my knitting in a higher place.

I very much enjoyed our visit to Pandora, and I must thank you again for inviting me along.  The people there are all so charming.  Or at least some of them are charming, and those that are not are so peculiar and fascinating that I cannot imagine leaving them out of our adventures.

I hear the Postman, which reminds me to tell you that you must look out for a small package arriving on Wednesday.  I suppose that it may not be available for you to procure until Thursday, if the past is any sort of yardstick.  The box contains another physick preparation, as well as a small surprise.

George and Katrina have just arrived home from their studies.  George has procured some sort of cake from the office and is devouring it with great gusto.  It was very cunningly made, with a little spider perched atop the frosting.  Never fear, it was not a true sugared spider (as they no doubt feast upon in Barbarous France ) but rather a cherry with legs fashioned from shreds of cocoanut meat - very clever indeed!  I was troubled to learn from him that one of his classmates suffered a seizure during class today.  I hope that the young man is recovered.  (It was nothing to do with the spiders or cakes, so pray do not fret for your brother's health.)

I am sorry that I have not more news, but I must continue my preparations for our company, and I am also collecting things from around the house for the Charity Man, who will be coming by tomorrow - and at extremely short notice!  But perhaps my haste will give me more ruthlessness in choosing what to send out.  Later tonight will find me chasing around the infernal inflated ball again.  I hope that I shall be able to put it away in the net once or twice.

I hope you are keeping well!

All my love,

Mumsy

22nd October

Hello My Darling,

I hope the day finds you well!  I have already dragged one of the servants throughout the whole of the living room and up and down the stairs to clean the floors.  I should dearly love to discover whomever had the notion of carpeting stairs so that I could hunt him down and wring his neck for him.  Truly, what an idiot he must have been!  Or perhaps he was simply a sadist.  I fear we shall never know as he is probably long dead.  (Side-note: look into development of time-traveling device - also into circumstances of death for inventor or stairway carpeting.  If I find he died of having his neck wrung, it will be telling indeed!)

Your brother and second sister (elder-younger?  I know not how to call her, in truth) are off to their classes, and your youngest sister is engaged in mathematical struggles of her own.  We shall away to the library soon enough, though, for it is Volunteering Day.  I do not know what they will have in store for us today.  Last week we were set to sorting beads by colour for some project or another, which I found to be a strangely soothing activity.  We were also tasked with the dressing of a door to make it appear as a mummy.   I hope it has not frightened any of the small children.  That is unlikely, though, because we ran out of supplies when were were not yet half done.  More than likely, the children will simply believe that there has been an accident involving a roll or two of the loo paper one sees so often in these parts.  (I do think that a lovely invention, as the Sears Catalogue was a bit brittle for my liking.)  I hope they do not try to recreate something similar at home, for then we should catch it for putting ideas into their little heads!

Yesterday I engaged myself for part of the day in the making of tiny sweets for the Little People.

I feel that the larger lollipops leave much to be desired, but they taught me a thing or two.

Last night we had some rain and a spot of some rather spectacular lightning, but it did not last for long.  Did you have any rain or storms in The City?

Bentley allowed me to brush him and even trim his nails today.  Will wonders never cease?  Wheatley, meanwhile, amuses himself with a fluffy yellow ball (I suspect that it was once a Sparkle Ball in its heyday) and with stealing pieces of your sister's new puzzle.  Jet's course of medicine is nearly finished (he is much the better for it!) and Puffin simply IS, which she does exceedingly well.

I look forward to collecting you from The City this evening!  After that, perhaps you will wish to accompany me in collecting your brother from his final carriage-driving class.  Do you feel brave enough to allow him to drive us home?  I find that he is coming along admirably, though i would desire him to be a bit more commanding, lest the carriage develop notions of its own.

I have found several receipts for Cousin Winry's Apple Pie.  Perhaps you will be able to assist me in discovering which is the correct one.  I have also been introduced to an amazing young man who makes televisual feasts.  You may think I exaggerate, but I assure you that I do no such thing.  And his parents appear to be positively delightful.  Perhaps we shall meet them at some party or another.  I do hope so, for his mother is an admirable chef, and one can never have too many of such friends!  Never fear, though; I shall not try any designs to throw you into his path, for I know you do not desire such things.  There, now.  Count yourself fortunate that I am nothing like Lizzy's meddling mother!

And so I leave you with this.  Until tonight, My Dear!

Much love,

Mumsy

21st October

Hello My Dear!

First, I would wish you the happiest and most restful of Wednesdays.  I am sorry that your College does not allow observance of our Holy Day, but I am grateful that you do not have to rise too early, and that you have but the one class.  Would that it were not Social Anxiety 901!  But we cannot always be the masters of our own fate - at least not in matters such as this.

I am observing the rites as best as possible, and have set the indentured servants to their tasks (for they cannot - nay WILL not operate without at least some aid and supervision.)  They are even now humming at their work.  I am glad that they have not our tradition of observance.  I find it is best to employ heathens if for this reason alone.

As you can see, I did not perish at the market yesterday, although there was a man shouting rather stridently somewhere out of our sight, and your sister was more than a little alarmed.  (I will admit to taking a strong cup of  tea, myself, once we returned home) However, I do not believe he meant to harm anyone.  I think perhaps he only had some sort of malady of the brain.  At any rate, I found two items which may be of interest to you.

 The first is a chocolate hazelnut cheesecake spread for - well, for eating with a spoon if I am to be completely honest, although it is also very palatable when spread on the little animal shaped biscuits that we favour. I am afraid that between your brother, two sisters, and myself, we devoured fully half the jar before the day's end!  I will attempt to preserve the rest (or at least a portion of it) for you to sample upon your return.

 

The second item is a sort of pillowy, pumpkiny cereal good.  Pray, do not be disturbed by the image upon the package.  As far as I am able to discern, it contains no actual bird meat.  As you must know, now is the time of year when one can find nearly any kind of foodstuff imaginable reinvented to include the flavour of the large orange gourds favoured by these North Americans.

All this talk of food puts me in mind that I have yet to peruse the archives for Cousin Winry's Apple Pie receipt.  If I find it, I will send you a copy by Steam Post for your evaluation.

And in a decidedly non-food vein, I must disclose that yesterday's adventures included a voyage of discovery into the icebox, which proved most distressing indeed.  I considered sending some of the more outstanding samples of my findings with your second sister so that she might study them with her Science Club, but in the end I did not, for fear of contravening Geneva Convention.

You might like to know that the Beggars who live in the woods took yesterday's offerings of ham and cheese, along with some popped corn.  I did not see them, nor did they leave any sign of gratitude, but I have come to expect such things.

Well, My Darling, one of the servants has just sung the "I Am Done" song, so I must go and attend to that and instruct her in her new task (and no doubt do all the heavy lifting for her as well!)  I hope that you have the most Wednesdayest Wednesday possible.

All my love,

Mumsy 

20th October

Hello My Dearest,

I hope that life in The City finds you well today.  I'm enjoying the warmer weather, and have even opened a door!  How lovely.

Last night (as you probably know), I spent the greater part of the evening in pursuit of an inflated orb.  I do not feel that I was particularly successful in my endeavours, but unlike last week, I did not collide with anyone or shed any blood (my own or others'.)  We must take these small victories where we can.

I begin to think that I shall have to take the carriage to Mr Kroger's market today.  I never really enjoy such activities, but we seem to be out of nearly everything that isn't either a condiment or no longer edible (and possibly mildly toxic.)  I hope I do not die of boredom.  Mayhap there will be something of interest there.  Should I purchase some celery root?  Mr Elton claims to love it, but I find myself skeptical.  I think I will err on the side of caution and delve no further than the grand adventure that is fennel, at least for now.  I have not really even decided what to purchase.  Nothing inspires.  But I suppose I should feed the family, if only occasionally.

But enough of my tiresome ennui.  I find myself decided upon looking out for Cousin Winry's Apple Pie receipt.  Shall we make it when next you are home?  I am nearly tempted to make a practice one, but what if it were to turn out wonderfully and you were not here?  That would, indeed, be a tragedy.  I do not think I could live with the guilt.

Your brother is having sushi rice for his lunch, and I will admit that your youngest sister and I breakfasted upon the same.  For some reason, I was moved to cut stars of ham to place on top of the rice in his lunch case.  I shall give the "ham sprue" to the beggars who live in the woods.  The same goes for the Swiss Cheese sprue.  I rather think they will enjoy it.

Pippa was intrigued to see that the fiery green paste known as wasabi (they say that it is "blessed by the devil" to obtain its fire, but I do not believe in such nonsense) can be purchased in "gigantic" tubes.  She insisted that I show you this massive tube in comparison with her normal sized one.  I have not the heart to tell her that it his her own that is the oddity and not the other way 'round.  Please excuse her mode of dress; she is going through what I believe is called an "experimental" phase.

 

Your middle sister has only one class today, but I believe she is meeting with the Lady Scientist to discuss matters for the Science Club. (Leaf club?  Bulb?  STEM!  Yes, I believe that is it.)  She will be retrieving your brother from his carriage lessons this evening, as I will be teaching and attending my regular classes in the Fighting Arts of the Orient.  It is a huge help that she is able to command a carriage on her own.  I do not know what we should do otherwise, for I should not like to employ a driver.  They are so often of a crass nature.  And Irish.

Well, I must end here.  Your sister needs some small help with her mathematics, and then we must away to the hated market.  Do let me know if you think I should attempt the pie. 

With much love,

Mum

19th October

My Darling,

I was thrilled to hear of your successes with your assignments - especially in Social Anxiety 901!  The carriage ride home last night was uneventful.  It was much easier for having seen the detour signs in time to make use of them.  We have not witnessed any more of the personal rockets since that one fateful night, nor did we see any of the lit transports.  I do hope you are able to capture some of those in a photograph some time.

Your brother continues his education in the commanding of the horseless carriage, and I am thankful that this is the final week, because it has made life more than a little hectic.  I look forward to having less on the daily docket when he has done with the classes!

I do not know whether you saw the final form of the fungus I was working with last night, so I shall append two photographs here.  The Little People seem very pleased with it.  Perhaps this means that they will be making less mischief now.  We shall see.

I shall encourage your youngest sister to post a letter or two to you.  Shall I make this method of communication available to her as well?  Be certain to check with the parcel mistress for your package.  I do hope that she has processed it by now.  Sadly it only contains the necessary physick powders we discussed.  Perhaps next time will bring something more interesting.  Do let me know if you require anything else! 

If you find time to write about your adventures in The City, we would be delighted to read about them. 


All my love,

Mum