This letter is written in neat handwriting, even though the rows are never evenly distributed along the piece of paper. There is an ink stain between the second and third paragraphs. It seems to be the seventh in a series of letters.
My dearest,
You cannot possibly imagine how happy I was to receive your letter. I could hardly contain my excitement from bubbling out of me. Maerstan was at home; his little demon cat was perched atop my wardrobe. Wiga liked to look at me from above; probably because she was waiting for the little treats of cheese, which I usually leave behind me for her. Normally, I would have shooed her out, but instead I closed the door and lay on my bed to read your words.
It was as long and as eloquent as I would expect from you. Adelwen has been adapting well in the court, even though the news she shares with us are very troubling. Our daughter is young, and I would hate to ask this of her, but could you ask her to keep her ears open? There is nothing in particular that she should take hint of. However, tell her that I beg her to remain vigil.
Please forgive my sloppiness. Wiga startled me and I spilled a bit of the ink; I had forgotten she was still in the room with me. She wanted to get out and hopefully kill some mice. Who am I kidding? The cat will probably go and lay in the sunshine or beg Maerstan for belly rubs. I will not write the letter from the start; I trust you will not be offended by it.
Here life is as dreary as in the last letter, which I am not sure it has reached you yet. However, it seems that I finally have a lead. I had gotten frustrated and anxious. Even despair clenched me in its claw during the nights. What if could not do my duty to the country and the King? What if I failed to meet the people I was tasked to?
My efforts proved fruitful, at last. Reliable information reached me about the location of the people I seek. However, Maerstan and I cannot venture forth alone as we need to travel many days north from here. Perhaps, Elladoraa will travel with us once more. I will ask her when she is back. She is off doing business for that insolent, fruit throwing adolescent boy. Even if she decides to accompany us, I will need to find more companions. Now, I know that these words will worry you, but fret not, my love. I will find us a few appropriate companions. Then, I can conclude my business here and return home as soon as I can.
Give to our sons a tight hug from me; persist even if they act as if they are above parental displays of love. Please, do not forget to convey my message to our daughter and assure our friend that I will set forth as soon as all is set.
With love,
Adiwen, Lady of Rohan
