Feanor defends his behaviour to his law-father.
Feanaro to Mahtan
Dear Master Mahtan
I must insist that I have in no way neglected my family any more than the typical Noldo. I am distressed that you chose to believe those groundless allegations. Have I not sought to ensure the continued welfare of my family both in Tirion and here in Formenos? I have created a masterpiece in the Silmarilli and ensured the everlasting reputation of my House in the histories of the Eldar. It is with great regret that I am unable to best these precious jewels, the culmination of all the wisdom and application of skills I have learnt as your apprentice and Lord Aule's. Even now I will strive to best my creation of the Silmarilli although it would seem a futile task.
As to your daughter, rest assured that I do not and will not neglect her. Istarnie is just experiencing some passing homesickness for Tirion, no cause for concern. I am sure that with time, she will grow to love Formenos just as my sons have. She is free to practice her craft with the rock we have in plentiful supply hereabouts. Also, we have more than sufficient domestic help to deal with the mundane everyday chores.
As to Ambarussa and Ambrato, their education has not suffered in any way as they are taught their letters by my eldest, who is a capable tutor in his own right. Moreover, they have their grandfather to teach them. I will pass my skills at the forge to them when they are old enough. Already they have shown great promise as hunters under Tyelkormo's tutelage.
This separation from Nolo's children is probably for the best where my sons are concerned. Nelyo needs to grow up to his full potential as my eldest son without that snivelling Findekano holding him back. As for Tyelko, we must consider Eldar customs in light of his growing infatuation with Irisse. I would that the girl is my daughter instead of Nolo's. I am surprised that Nolo and his wife managed to produce such a spirited lass between them.
A matter of concern to me is how my half-brother is probably messing up big time in Tirion. Nolo is not as wise as his name makes him out to be. Alas the sentence of exile still sits on me. My guess is that Vanya bitch Indis probably runs the court now seeing how naïve my little brother is. A dark time for all Noldor indeed.
Until my return, yours respectfully
Curufinwe Feanaro
Author's Notes:
Istarnie - possibly a version of Nerdanel's mother-name from Tolkien's unpublished notes.