Christmas was wonderful. I hadn't realized how good it felt to give someone a gift, and I had never been treated as a member of a family before. I decided that day that I would someday have a family—wife, kids, home. I would buy them as many gifts as I could, and we would have a Christmas tree . . . and somehow the Fischers found their way into that fantasy. Were they really that much my family? I was truly touched that they got me such a fitting book, and I read their inscriptions again.
"Spot,
You have become a regular fixture in our lives, and your presence has made life easier on both of us since the passing of my dear Anja. I am proud to know such an upstanding and capable young man. It is a fortunate thing for the city of Brooklyn that you are the leader of the young men on the streets. They have a fine role model in you, and I know that you are teaching them good things. You have a bright future, and I look forward to many years of watching you grow into a leader of this city's adults as well as its young people. You are a welcome addition to our family. Remember you can always come to me for anything. I wish you all the best for the coming year and for your future.
Alfred"
"Spot,
You have been such a good friend to me. I've never trusted anyone the way I trust you. Papa says you will do great things, and I agree. I just hope you don't forget about us. You've been so supportive since Mama died, and I don't know what I would do without you. Thank you for teaching me to be less shy. I can look people in the eye now thanks to you. You're the best. Lots of love this Christmas and for years to come,
Katja"
I won't get tired of reading that. Ever. I had a family.
Christmas of 1898 remains one of the most special days of my life.