(The following letter is written in a practiced, legible hand, with just enough rebelliousness in the script to suggest that the author had occasionally neglected or evaded penmanship lessons in his youth.)

To my dearest sister Arlais,
I, Argider de Roldan, send greeting from the north:

I am glad to tell you that your package arrived earlier this week, though nearly a fortnight late and by no fault of your own, dear Arlais. According to the courier’s office, an early Spring melt has left some of the southern roads muddy to the point of being nearly impassable.  I admit, I thought perhaps you had forgotten my birthday this year, but I was wrong to doubt you.  As always, your gift is perfectly suited to my tastes.  How is it that you are able to choose such well-matched presents without fail?  I fear I am always fumbling when it comes to those delicate decisions.

Indeed, your gift sparks an idea in me… I shall think on it and tell you more when next I write.  For now, let me say that it will have a special place on my desk, and that I will make good use of it and often.

Though, I should be more cautious about what I store in my cottage.  I do not wish to alarm you, sister, but my home on Montford Way was recently entered and rifled while I was stationed at the Keep.  Nothing important was taken, just a few items I had left about, but would you believe that they even took the coffee pot on my stove?  Some days, I do not even return there, on account of having too much work to do.  I suspect my prolonged absences have made my cottage an easy target for these thieves.  I haven’t the funds to pay for a better door lock just yet, but I promise to do so when I am able.  Please do not worry.

As for your inquiry regarding my new friend, I am not certain where to begin, or what to say that would satisfy your curiosity. Or perhaps I fear getting ahead of myself or being too presumptuous.  It is a relief to meet someone with whom I can converse and, I admit, a comfort to receive such kind attention, but I worry that I will make a mess of it all sooner or later.  And, what’s more, that I shall have to.  You know my situation and why I have chosen to join the Knights Lithmorran.  How would you advise me to proceed?  Would that I possessed your natural grace and delicacy with these social matters.

May you enjoy the upcoming Spring Awakening, and may the Lord bless you, your husband, and your sons with good health and good fortune.  I miss you all.

By my hand this morning of Solisda, the 28th of Maritus,
In the year of Our Lord 357,

A_____ de R______