Clifford,

You will, I hope, forgive me my delay in responding. To say that I was surprised to hear from you is something of an understatement, and I needed some time to adjust to the news brought to me by your owl. I rejoice only to have heard from you, for though Father and I had our differences—to say the least—it is not in my nature to wish death upon anyone, particularly when there are still those who do love them.

Though the circumstances are sad, I do hope that you are well. I think of you—and of Amos, and Mother, and even Father—more often than I care to, and wonder how you are all making your way through the world. I do not know if you think of me, and do not wish you to feel guilty if you do not. If you do, however, I hope you do so without concern, for I have found a position in the Ministry of Magic and am, in spite of all that has happened, doing well for myself.

I thank you for taking the time to write, and welcome further correspondence.

Yours,