Dear Pearl,

Melba's theater class is hosting Madame Blutofsky's Traveling Circus this week, Pearl.  The performers are very talented - they bend like rubber and play the drums and the trumpet with equal aplomb.  But they are difficult houseguests.  Olga and her sister Babushka are staying in the room next to our dear Caldonia and Eva Catherine.  The language barrier prevents companionable conversation.  And they insist on rinsing out their tiny costumes nightly in the kitchen sink.  Louise is awfully sulky as a result and refuses to cook or clean until they have left.  Oh dear.  It is so hard to be so international!  Please advise,

I Remain, As Always, Your Devoted Miss Blue