5 August 1941
My Dear Matthew,
Sometimes I wonder how easily you've come into my life; was it really over a year ago that you walked into Rufus' diner and struck up a conversation? I wouldn't change it for the world, though I do wish the war was over so you and the boys can come home, something tells me we're only just beginning with this whole thing.
I'm glad you're all safe, and that Miss Spitfire is keeping all of you on your toes. I'm also glad you're able to keep her, everyone needs companions throughout all of this, you and your men especially. We've heard of what we assume is your "bit of action" in the papers finally - I'm glad it didn't last long and with minimal losses for you all.
Things here are continuing on as usual; school and helping out around Miss Fisher's house - complete with discussions of cases around the dining room table even if Superintendent Robinson tries to dissuade it all. Edith and Clara are doing alright, Edith is thinking of training to be a nurse to help out with the warfront (I think her parents are trying to convince her not to, which is completely understandable with caring parents), and Clara is still stepping out with her beau (the one they had me help pick out an outfit) who's doing his part for the war by working in the shipyards. I think we might be hearing news of an engagement within the next year - she really likes him and he treats her much better than in her previous relationships.
Edith's also been making noise about potentially finding me a beau, but I keep shutting her down about it. I don't need a beau, I need to finish my degree and actually start working in pathology. (Working with dead people might narrow down my prospects, but I'm not too worried about that). Besides, isn't it better to wait for someone who meets better standards than rushing into… well, anything?
Should I expect a sample of some of your cooking whenever you come back home? I'm still not doing well, but at least I'm burning things less and less (I apologize right now for some of the more… charred biscuits with this letter, but I know you enjoy the ones with cinnamon in them and I wanted to surprise you with a batch). My mending and sewing skills are improving, and I'm finding it very soothing to work with my hands to help settle my mind - particularly if someone is reading my notes out to me as I study (Mrs. Collins is getting better at her pronunciation of medical terms), but don't expect any glamorous clothing pieces any time soon.
How is your progress with Pride & Prejudice coming along?
Your Friend,
Alice
[Included with the letter is a packet of (slightly burnt) biscuits and another bound journal with blank pages. On the front page, Alice has written "I do enjoy your drawings in my letters, here's a place for those moments of inspiration that strike outside of letter writing. - A"]
