فانی

EPHEMERA

Text of a note sent via Codex to Jess Brightwell from his mother, Charity Brightwell:

My dearest boy:I pray this message finds you well and happy in your exciting new life.

Your father and I miss you awfully each day, as does your brother, who likewise sends his best wishes. Business is going well, he says, and he hopes that one day you will be able to participate in it in a more meaningful way.Your father received an appointment to a select committee on the beautification of our borough. As a consequence, Lord Peter Foxworth had us to dinner the other night to discuss hedges. It was a lovely event, and I know you would have greatly enjoyed meeting his daughter Juliet, who is quite lovely. Your uncle Thaddeus has retired and moved to his country home in the north, and has made it known that we are always welcome there.

He fears that London may fall victim to the Welsh advance, but we don’t believe that could ever happen, of course.

Surely the army will stop them.

I am eager to hear all of the news of your brilliant success, Jess.

Please do write, and know that I send my love.

Fondly, Your mother A separate note from Callum Brightwell, attached to the same message.Suspected of hidden coded messaging and reviewed by Obscurists. Found to be inconclusive.

Greetings from your old da, boy.

Always remember the words of Descartes: The reading of all good books is like conversation with the finest men of the past centuries. Take full advantage of your opportunities at the Great Library, and do your family proud. All your siblings, living and dead, count upon you to prove your worth to the world. And don’t forget your cousins. They’re eager to see you again.