This parcel is sent from the Shire into the Bree-land via Buckland. It is addressed to one Avelia Appleark, widow of Odvil Appleark, so may be found (upon arrival) in her possession. The paper tag reads:
MRS. AVELIA APPLEARK
THE STONE QUARTER
BREE
THE BREE-LAND
The letter reads:
Mrs. Appleark,
The news you sent of your husband’s recent death has brought me much grief and tears. Never is such news welcome, but it is all the less welcome when it concerns one who you count as a dear and old friend. But my grief on the matter cannot surely contest your own, for you shared a happy marriage together for so many long and fertile years.
The sorrow that you surely feel is that which I am, unfortunately, familiar with. I lost my own dear wife, Primrose, some years ago. In the early days it felt as though I might never cease to mourn for her passing. But in good time, and with the help of family and friends, I did. If I might pass some advice on to you in this matter, then I will tell you this: keep yourself busy. Do not let those dark thoughts be welcome. Remember Odvil, but remember his life – not his death.
It was many years ago when I first met Odvil. It was during one of my visits to Bree, where I had journeyed in order to research one of my books. My intention was to stay at the Prancing Pony during my time there, in one of the hobbit rooms that are most comfortable. But open reaching the inn, I found that my purse was missing. Stolen or misplaced, perhaps. But I was without coin to pay my board. There was nowhere else to go, so I would have had to turn back to the Shire. That was until one of the staff there, whom I was not acquainted with, spoke to the innkeeper on my behalf and secured me a room. That man was Odvil Appleark. It would be the beginning of a friendship that I would love and cherish for many years. Even now, after his passing, I will continue to love and cherish it. The beer stein – Odvil’s beer stein – that was left to me in his will shall forever have a place in my home, so that I may think of him and you whenever I make use of it.
With all my heart I hope that you are well. After our last meeting in Fullbridge, Odvil seemed to be doing quite well for himself with the inn, so I trust that you are able to live comfortably now that he is gone. My cares are lightened with the knowledge that your son and his own family have taken you into their home. Despite the tragedy of such times, they do tend to bring families closer. I am unsure of the arrangements that you made concerning Odvil’s burial, but I have sent a considerable amount of silver coins in this parcel so that you might see that a large headstone may be purchased - deserving of his long and honest life, and the good memories that he leaves us with.
My most sincere and loving regards to you and your family,
Mr. Brablo Boffin, Barleywick
