Still the shire is home. And to think I was ready to leave it all behind and go buy a home in Far Harad just this morning! But I was afraid of losing my Iorhael--simply because I did not understand him well enough. But I understand him better now, and the sympathy of our souls grows daily and is my greatest joy. I've started to read his journal now and hope one day I'll better understand his other pursuits. He's finally resting a bit and I've taken post watching over his sleep; should all duties prove so sweet.
I wished to inquire further over the fate of Erchi, Merry, and Samwise after they went off in such confusion, but Elanorelle has still not fully shaken the plague and has been slumbering here, so I haven't wanted to roam far lest she wake and be distressed. But of all folk, who should I run into today at Bag-end, but Hamilcar! That was quite a surprise to be sure. I'm glad to see him well and safe; I only wish I could say the same for dear Trotter. And to learn dear Hamilcar was married all this time, and to feel nothing but amusement at the revelation, makes one realize that change can be a friend to us as much as it distresses us at times.
Ah, but my Iorhael is so lovely in his sleep.
