It is unknown to many of the House that I have been a great traveler in the world, but as I am not so learned as some, and not educated in the High Speech: being born in the dark woods to a humble cheesemaker, I am sometimes looked down upon by certain Elves, and considered to be very ignorant. But notwithstanding the baseness of my birth, and lack of education at the beginning (compared to some others), which might be a great hindrance to some, through my diligence and single-minded industriousness, and knowledge of far lands, gathered by painful travel, I was able to develop my understanding of the wider world, and make my way to Imladris.
Where, being perceived by the most noble Lord Anglachelm in the courtyard of Elrond the Half-Elven, the cheesemaker’s son was taken into service, and making him his Ambassador, set him about business of the most importance: treating with foreigners, and behaving himself so advisedly in matters which he took in hand, and such was the Ambassador’s activity, so discreet and well advised in judgment, and so eloquent of tongue, and so faithful and diligent in service, and he could do so well with his pen, and write so neatly too, that he could not long continue his efforts unespied; and, within a small time he rose to high authority, and was set up to such a high degree of honor as he attained unto, that he may doubt whether there be cause more to marvel at his good fortune, or wonder if there was some other reason for it.
But, on further reflection, he need not spend more time thinking about it, only to observe that it is well deserved, and since the time he came into the House, he has always tried to serve everyone therein with the greatest courtesy and consideration, and he laments that he did not mean to offend anyone, but Lord Estarfin was offended anyway, and he hopes this lord will forgive him, with time. And while others of prideful disposition might have slandered the Ambassador, and have seen fit to shame him publicly, this gives him greater joy to thank Lord Anglachelm, who is a great favorer of the downtrodden, always ready to do those who please him a good turn, and provide for his faithful servants. So that it well appears that the rewards of virtuous service, which advance one to fame and honor, do not depend on birth and blood, but remain the special disposition of Lord Anglachelm, who perhaps understands the poor son of a cheesemaker better than anyone else, and who has this day appointed his faithful Ambassador to be Lord Caun.
He shall always be thankful for this honour, and not forget the great courtesy shown to him, nor the help of his friends, to whom he owes his place and office.
