{ NOTE: The following is a letter addressed to Lancogard North-took of the Shire, delivered to him by direct eagle-post (which he keeps pressed in his Life-book) }
Torech Besruth, Falathlorn, Lindon
32 Hrívë in the Reckoning of Imladris (being the Second Day of Yule in the Shire-reckoning)
Seregrían Lady of Bar-en-Acharn to her dear friend Lancogard North-took of the Shire, greeting: may this letter see you in continued joy and comfort in these winter days.
. As I stood outside my manor enjoying the brisk afternoon airs on the banks of the Lhûn, I was alerted by a shrill cry in the high airs to the arrival of Sûlpadron as he completed his errand. As he alighted near me, I saw his pouch was bulging with its contents; I knew your reply had come, and it was apparently a lengthy one! I thanked Windwalker and bade him find food for himself, and I went inside to read your letter by the fire.
How much laughter, and how many smiles your letter brought me! I could see in my mind's eye the scene you described, with the worthies of your folk watching my letter's arrival and the way you accepted it as if it were an everyday occurence! I am pleased that your reputation has been enhanced by our correspondence, which I promise shall be long and merry.
I am concerned for the tidings you send regarding the rumors of goblin incursions into the lands of the Halflings. I can tell you with certainty that the news you bring has been heard in many ways, and in other places. It appears that your situation on the borders is one of several reports that have come to me, for other lands and districts have had similar troubles. I am hoping that your vigilance and dedication to your office shall be up to the task of keeping your home secure.
It is in light of this news that I have elected to follow a course I mentioned in my previous letter, and offer this for your consideration. After the Yule days have passed, I should be pleased to visit you in the Shire. The location of our reunion I leave to you, pending the outcome of whatever duties you must discharge. As per your last letter, that your duties now take you back to that region you name the Northfarthing, I shall instruct Windwalker to seek you there on his next flight. Name the place and date where you would wish to receive me, and I shall make all efforts to find you.
I do confess that I found your burrow in Dunfurlong to be a charming place, typical of the Halfling homes I have become familiar with seeing during my travels through the Shire. I also confess that I have yet to visit the northern marches of your lands and, should you decide to receive me there, I shall not be disappointed in the chance to further my knowledge of Halfling lore and customs.
As I close this letter to you, dear Lance, the Sun has set and the weather appears to be taking a turn for worse; the winds are beginning to rise, and I can hear the wuthering of the eaves here at The Lair. I shall wait until the morning to send Windwalker on his way to you. May he, and you, have fair weather in the days ahead, and may this latest letter to you bring you as much joy as the season, and your letters, have brought me in turn.
Lance.
Yavanna give blessings upon you and yours, until we meet again.
