Dear Miss Blue,

Louise just called me to say she has arrived in town and needs directions to the Village. Imagine! She sounded a bit weary and I am wondering if she regrets leaving Linguini to his own peculiarities. I sympathize with her, Miss Blue, for she has always been attracted to him for his happy and Oh, So Italian ways. Singing the Italian Folk Songs has been especially liberating for both of them, and I do hope her visit here with me as we envision the menu for Pearl's Diner won't be too hard on her love life with Linguini. And now to rue the day! I remember taking Linquini to a darling little coffee house in Brooklyn - a place that held many sweet memories for me - where the music students from the nearby music school broke into song, much to Linguini's delight, singing a rousing chorus of the Drinking Song ( from the Student Prince ) with Linguini's beautiful tenor voice, leading the way, as they all marched around the coffee house. So high spirited, Miss Blue! By the way, that visit was when you sent Linguini all the way to New York to deliver my special Baby Ruth Lotion. So kind of you, too, but that is your generous way.

Anyway, I am busy with the grand opening of Pearl's Diner. . . . I'm imagining sometime in late summer or very early autumn, when the leaves are turning their beautiful reds and yellows. I have gathered recipes from Mimi and Myson the Doctor, and hope to use the Depression recipes remembered from my childhood in Michigan. The decorating with Schubert is going very nicely.  He is so dashing, Miss Blue, and I am amazed at the transformation. I just can't imagine where all that talent comes from!

Give my regards to Melba and Fanny. I imagine Fanny has a favorite sweet tooth recipe, doesn't she? Maybe she will offer it to Pearl's Diner. And now, I will wait for news from you, Miss Blue.

Pearl says Music and Food are the best when served together.