This letter is sent from the Shire into the Bree-land via Buckland. It is addressed to one Brookin Crepsley, so may be found (upon arrival) in his possession.The envelope of this letter bears a red, unbroken seal upon it. On the other side is written:
MR. BROOKIN CREPSLEY
1 HIGH ROAD
PONT
THE BREE-LAND
The letter reads:
To my dearest friend,
It has been some time since your departure from the Shire, but I have been unable to find the words to put to paper. In fact, I had resolved not to write at all, until our mutual and wise friend, Salgalin, changed my mind on the matter. As always, I trust this letter finds you well. Even here in the Southfarthing, I hear rumours of trouble in the Bree-land. Brigands and banditry are said to be rife, though I hope Pont has been spared of this.
It was with great regret that I insisted that you leave Barleywick. As you well know, the Big Folk are looked upon with great suspicion – perhaps even fear – by we, the Shire-hobbits. It must be said that I have been known to share this suspicion and fear in regards to your good self, from time to time. I should know better by now, of course, but old habits are bound to old hobbits.
Your visits to my home were always enjoyed by me, but conducted in secret. By some means, this secret was betrayed to the Watch. What with your daughter, Hestia, with you, this was a great risk. It is the duty of the Bounders to see Outsiders away from the Shire. Regardless of our friendship (which is valued beyond gold to me), you are an Outsider. Better to see you away peacefully and quietly than to have the Bounders run you out across the Brandywine. But for the haste and discourtesy that I showed towards you in that urgent and pressing time, I apologise.
I heartily desire for you to return to the Shire, one day. Perhaps I am naïve in this, for it is likely that you have no such desire since our last meeting. But know that I miss your good company dearly. It is your reply that I look forward to, if you should care to write back. Do bring me news of the Bree-land, and of yourself, and of your kin.
Your good and faithful friend,
Brablo Boffin, Barleywick
