askmissbernadette asked:
*When one reads another's handwriting regularly, one begins to see the intent behind their written words. The note in the basket of pastries on the doorstep bears a script you know well from notes on your office door; But the familiar shapes convey an emotion you do not immediately recognize... Concern, perhaps?* "Gale- A few of your Bairns came to me in the dead of night. Said you'd caught the well-madness, and couldn't stop eating. Please... Do what you do best, and look after yourself. -BB"
A letter returns via a Knotted Sock runner who refuses to leave until he’s been fed a half jar of marmalade and several slices of bread for a job well done.
Bernie,
It’s lovely you’re so concerned about my well being as to write like this. Much nicer than the usual D–N IT ALL GALE I hear from you. I should like this pleasantry to continue, I think.
You can tell the lads it is safe to come back, if they wish. I have lost the itch, for the time being. The dreams stopped. The hunger is no longer so maddening. I am down to consuming a reasonable volume of meat and potatoes, as a normal Londoner should.
Of course, if that letter was your way of proposing that you come by and help me by, say, cooking a large meal for the Orphanage, or taking over the cleaning, or whatever it is you do for invalids on an idle Tuesday in your pleasant Church-choir life? Please do drop in. There will be no payment, of course, but for some reason the little lads do love you and would probably enjoy your company.
-Eddy
There’s some smudged writing at the bottom of the letter; it looks like there was going to be more written here but it’s all been splattered with fresher ink and smeared over. The one visible word is Name. With the N capitalized.
Eddy may not be as free as they’re claiming…