4 September 1851; In Which Mrs Pennylegion Purchases The Ghost in the Glass House

Dear Gertrude,

I fear your letter may have arrived too late. You see, I too have made a purchase strictly for the sake of a pretty cover, and a closer examination assures me that this book may be intended for persons smaller and sticker than myself.

But then, Harriet has informed me more than once that I seem to be shrinking with age, and I have breakfast marmalade stuck between my fingers, so perhaps it will all work out. The novel is called The Ghost in the Glass House and I am hopeful, even if I have it from a trusted source that it is another American creation.

I wish I could say I had more news for you, but this week has been horrifically dull. I suspect that Harriet may have offended Mrs Highmore in some way or other, but that is hardly newsworthy, for she is offended by most creatures with a face and a beating pulse (and some without—I once saw her give the most poisonous look to a stuffed partridge, no doubt for its improper familiarity with the unsuitable subject of death).

Alfie has been stalking all over the estate, such as it is, with his father. I do not know what they are about, but they seem to be getting nowhere. As you well know, Mr Pennylegion has become very good at getting nowhere over the years, but I cannot say that Alfie is taking to his new occupation.

And please, let us not speak of Lucy. Yesterday, I discovered her chewing on a grape from the waxed fruit display in the sitting room. You know the one.

With love,

Prudence Pennylegion

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