Duchess Correspondence February 1560

Apologies that these things take so long.  There will be many MANY updates in the next few days, and most of them aren't even written by me.  Makes it that much more exciting when outside contributors want to share their characters with the world.  To that end, my letter from the Duchess in February.

February 1560

Greeting Lady Morgan of Spencer,

Ink to cheer you, scroll paper to warm you, words to get wishes through a distance.

Darling friend, the snow has begun to melt. I can almost hear birds chirping, flowers growing, and Hugh's beard shortening for a spring trim. Most have already turned their thoughts of fancy to love as Saint Valentine's mass is almost upon us. In recognition of such a holy day, I journeyed to that lovely winery where we celebrated Lord Percy's 40th natal den. Of course, this is the same locale where he narrowly avoided a premature demise. I do not wish to let that overshadow the beauty of the place however. If there were any dangers, they were kept at bay for I was guarded by Mark Strong, a Lord of Adventure. We were also joined by a sweet pair of peasants whose names thoroughly escape me. Siblings. I suspect I shall protect the young girl from Mister Strong as he was protects me from other predators. 

The musicians at the wine festival were very entertaining, though I do miss my darling Pasha. I never understood a word he said but he made the most humorous noises. Yet the music carried me through.  Also it's always nice to stumble upon fans of Crossford. As soon as they glimpsed us, they lauded our presence. I hadn't the heart to let on I had no notion of who they were. 

Naturally, my Lord of Adventure and I invited the gathered crowd to Crossford's midsummer festivities as well as an upcoming event at Valenzano. Yes, my dear reader, I invited them to the exact place they were. That is either very silly or the most logical thing in the world. They cannot claim to get lost! It seems someone is to be murdered mysteriously. Morbid voyeuristic soothsayers.

I hope this last day of excess, greed, sloth, gluttony, and drunkenness finds you well and fat. As Hugh calls it, Tuesday. For tomorrow, we begin the repentant hang over of Lent. 

In prayers for stable governance: church, state, body, mind, & soul,

Lady Elizabeth Percy

Duchess of Northumberland