5th July, 1895

Dearest,

Thank you again for seeing Mrs. Carsten on such short notice; she was dreadfully concerned that the dragon pox would harm her pregnancy, but when she returned to me this week, it seemed you have lightened her burdens tremendously. Perhaps I ought to spend some time at the Abbey myself, learn from you instead of the other way around—but then, I have said this before, and desire does not always go hand-in-hand with time.

Just as I have too little of it, it seems your brother has too much of it, and it is on that note that I am writing today. Simeon, of course, insists that he his "planning his grand tour", as though I am not his mother and cannot see through him. I was lucky, I think, with you and the other boys: drive and focus, all. Your sisters are much the same, though this focus has been applied differently. Simeon, though...

I harbour no expectations that he will go into a medical field, and expect seeing the particular work you do would give him a stroke, but I wondered if you might have him out at the Abbey, allow him to see the focus and care that you apply to your own occupation. Worry not, I have chosen to spread this chore about—Gregory will be having him out to a building site next week to observe archetecture in process.

I do not wish to steer my children any more than I already have, but I can certainly give them a map, that they might see the possible destinations.

Please give Hudson a kiss from me.
(The younger, of course.)

Your loving Mother

Melinda Podmore

  

6 July, 1895

Dear Mother,

Your letter was timely. I have a rare day away from the Abbey on Tuesday. Errands in Hogsmeade take precendent of course, but I had planned to see you then. I assumed you would want to see Hudson II as well due to his leaving for school soon. His governess plans to floo with him at 3 o'clock in the afternoon. If this does not suit your schedule, let me know.

You are more than welcome to come to the Abbey whenever you have the time. As you know, I'm there most of the time so you will not miss me.

As for my brother Simeon, I find my hands quite full between being a mother and overseeing those who serve mothers. I couldn't possibly have the time to show him how to become a responsible adult. Perhaps his grand tour will knock some sense into him.

All my love,
Mrs. Melinda Podmore

  

         

7th July, 1895

Dearest,

I am disa Of course I should be delighted to see you both. I shall ensure my schedule allows for it. Perhaps I shall send your brother to St Mungo's as a courrier that afternoon, that I might catch up on my paperwork from home.

Your loving Mother

Melinda Podmore

  

July 8, 1895

Dear Mother,

I have informed the governess. I'll bring that flavor of tea from the shop in Irvingly you like so much too. See you soon.

All my love,
Mrs. Melinda Podmore