Thank you for being so understanding. The boys were thrilled to not be so horribly outnumbered for once - at least in terms of age. They tend to think I 'mother' them too much, but what else is an eldest daughter to do? Anne was a delight as always. I enjoyed hearing of her summer experiments and relieved to know she hasn't yet burnt your home to the ground. And you, of course. I mostly enjoyed being near you once more.

Whatever happens this year and beyond, you and I shall always remain friends. I promise.

They thought you a most responsible and respectable young man. Not that they would have reason to suspecf anything else, you are a person of great sense and humility. Kind, generous, the works. I daresay you haven't a flaw to your name, Edison.

Only one and a half months until school starts. Have you given any thought to what classes you hope to keep?