Dear Miss Blue,

The weather here is dreary, with a cold rain falling most of the morning and now on through the afternoon. And so you can imagine how delighted I was to have your letter in my mailbox with the story of Lady Grayfinch's costume ball! Did you notice the many finch costumes? I'm not surprised, for everyone wanted to impress Lady Grayfinch (remember the old saying, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery). I am wondering about the guest at the clavichord, and the music page-turner at her side; were you able to hear, above all of the noisy chatter, the song she was singing? Listen to the Mocking Bird, an old tune, comes to mind. I especially love the Mole disguise for the young cousins. Clever Linguini!

Now I must stir up a batch of pretzels, and of course I shall be sending along a few for you. Bye for now. Please write again soon, Miss Blue.

Love, Pearl