Private Message to Norah Crouch

Yes, Mother. Pennifold took your owl while I was out this afternoon. I've only just returned.

Yes, Maebh's arrived.

Yes, we'll be on time to supper. No later than half-seven. I promise.

No, there's no need for you to prepare the guest room: Maebh's accommodations are arranged already. For that matter, you needn't have mine prepared, either. Really, I don't know why you've put yourself to such unnecessary trouble. I was certain I'd made this clear when we spoke last weekend.

Nonetheless, thank you, Mother. I do appreciate your wanting to have us. Maebh made a point this afternoon of saying how much she is looking forward to seeing you.

And she's most apologetic that she couldn't make it tomorrow on the actual day. Her work is unforgiving in that regard, but I assured her that you have long experience accommodating family members whose schedules must be worked around. I trust you will be as gracious about that as I've led her to expect.

Now. Don't spend the rest of the afternoon fussing. I don't want you exhausting yourself. I'm certain the new girl is quite capable of managing all the preparations. I had the strongest assurances not only about her cookery skills but her ability to handle many things at once. Please, Mother. If you tire yourself, you won't be able to enjoy the evening. And that will weigh on all of us.

So. We'll see you in a bit.