Dear Pearl,

Thank you, dear, for the clue about Pea Surprise.  Melba was able to introduce the secret ingredient in the most roundabout way - Louise is convinced it is her own idea!  Melba is so good at being roundabout, no doubt due to her theatrical training. . .

"Leotard Follies" ended its very successful run last night.  The critics were kind, most of them paying special tribute to the difficulty of Linguini's high C - originating as it did within the confines of the book costume.  And all of us attended the cast party at the home of Mrs Highbottom.  In addition to being a great friend of the opera, she sings with gusto when there's a crowd.  Her rendition of "When The Saints Come Marching In" brought down the house, even if it did include some strange lyrics that she inserted to make up for the ones she'd forgotten.  Oh how you would have enjoyed the evening, too, Pearl.  I hope you do come for a visit once the Village is all squared away with its Case of the Missing Dog.  I wonder what became of him?  Did he, to your knowledge, have any enemies who could be considered suspects?  Do let me know.  I love a mystery.

I Remain As Always, Your Devoted Miss Blue