21st September, 1893

My dear Aunt,

The simple phrase "my condolences" does not come close to encompassing the way my heart goes out to you in this time of grief. Uncle Priam's loss is surely already felt throughout the family; rest assured that we are all here for you.

I know you are grieving in your own way, and will keep this brief: given Uncle Priam, Aunt Andromache, and our sweet Ellory will all find their final rest in the family crypt, I wonder if it mightn't be best to hold shared services for them. I worry that a quick repetion of the opera of mourning might simply be too much for some of our cousins. I would never go ahead without seeking your opinion; Arthur and Claudius, though, I think would be content with the arrangement. After all, men may be the head of a household, but this is a task left most often to the women of a family.

It pains me, of course, to be so businesslike at this time, but no amount of grieving will bring back those we have lost so abruptly. I am not well-versed enough in your club religion to know what words will bring you comfort, but I do most certainly wish it for you.