Benedict at Harvest Time

Louise is raving about the wonderful time she had with you, Pearl. But I am glad to have her back here. Linguini is his old self and dinner times are so much more pleasant now that we are not forced to eat out of the pantry every night. One more salmon croquette would have driven me right to the brink. . .

Fanny is back at school of course. She was awfully excited that first day to be back in class with friends and was ready and waiting for Linguini to bring the car around before the rest of us had finished breakfast. I suppose it does get lonely being the only child in this old place. . .

Until later I remain as always,

Your Devoted Miss Blue

De

Louise will miss you and darling Schubert so much! However, I think she will welcome an ocean between herself and that dreadful Lin Soo. Louise is quite traditional as a rule and I know she is troubled by Lin Soo's devious ways. Also, I cannot stress enough how very important it is for Louise to be here to help manage Linguini. He borrowed two of my card table chairs this morning and took them somewhere. My bridge club is due momentarily and I shall have to distract them until he returns. Oh dear! I suspect the worst!

I Remain As Always,

Your Devoted Miss Blue

Dear Miss Blue,

Your letter, just arrived, has opened up so many memories of days gone by! The scene of our first adventure into unexplored, for us, places, and our brave notions of suitable independence,(after-all, we didn't want to make too much of a splash) like joining the Military (it was possible, Miss Blue, if you remember, the recruiting of women for the first time in history, into the military; but we chose the Gold Rush and Alaska). Once there we opened The Two Girls Waffle Shop. How amazing was our courage and, of course, it was a personal thing, our love of the Waffle!

And now, after all these years, Pearl's Diner emerges, with its ever so many varieties of tasty food, including the original Alaskan Waffle. A true story to enliven the heart and soul of the entrepreneur, for once and for all!  Louise is all panicky since I spoke to her about Linquini's behavior; she thanks you Miss Blue, for the ticket home but I sense a regret at leaving the kitchen here at the Diner and, of course, Schubert. He has assured her of his loyalty and will do his best with the Diner employees and their customers. By that I mean to say, the Diner will continue to keep up a excellent and attractive reputation, as always.

Amazing to hear of Linguini's high-wire talents! Just a clown at heart, and possibly a new career is in sight? Monkey- like tickles me, Miss Blue. Singing whilst swinging. The Love of the Theater can't be overlooked, that being said I send....

Love, Pearl, Writing From The Porch

Dear Pearl,

Oh Dear! I'm anxious to have Louise back here safe and sound. Linguini has been acting like a perfect fool since she's been gone. Last week he joined the aerialist division of his old opera company and has been swinging on everything that dangles inside and out. It is some comfort to know that he feels less lonely when he hangs from the chandelier like an overdressed circus monkey. I enclose a one way ticket for her to rejoin us at once!Oh, I thought you would like to be reminded of the trip we took to Alaska when we were still young. Remember these two enterprising souls in Anchorage? Who knew how inspirational they would prove to be. . .

I Remain As Always
Your Devoted Miss Blue

Dear Miss Blue,

I can't help but wonder what is going on with Louise these days. She is dramatic in her ways, keeping that humming going all the while she peels and slices peaches for putting up, and, I have noticed a smirky twist to her mouth, in between hums. What on earth is bothering her, Miss Blue, for we have, Schubert and I, been nothing but kind and cooperative there in the kitchen. I have a notion that it is all about Linguini; the only letter he has sent to her has fallen into the garbage; and I am sure not by accident. How heartless is Linguini! Melba should be told about this, Miss Blue, he is such a dog...

The Diner is open and successful with the tables outside the most popular. Mostly young mothers come with their little ones, often with the family pet dog, always sitting politely beside their small owner, anticipating a taste, and eventually allowed to lick the saucer of the syrupy, buttery slippery taste left just for them. Lin Soo has offered to recite the alphabet in Chinese and read the story of the Seven Chinese Brothers to the children while they wait for their waffles. Everyone ooohs and ahhhs when the waffles are served. Served on the Blue Willow saucers, with maple syrup and butter, and shaped like a Chinese Junk. When do you think you will be coming to the Village, Miss Blue? Fanny and Melba certainly will want to taste the Chinese Junk Waffle, as will you. Sending love and best wishes to you, Melba, and Fanny.

Please write again soon, Pearl