Dear mother,

I know you are now gone. This will never change. I have decided that I will keep writing these letters, though. I will not post them. I will keep them in my favorite chest and look at them whenever I miss you. All the time that is.

After your passing, Father came to Marseilles, and we buried you there together. We cried, all of us; Father, grandmamma, me, and Lawrie. A few days later, we returned home to London along with Grandmamma. She now lives here with us. No one should be forced to go through the death of their child alone; this is what Father says. I agree. Also, grandmamma is a nice addition to our household. She keeps criticizing Mrs. Hawley’s cooking in half-English, half-French. It is rather funny.

Mrs. Jaspers reprimanded Lawrie heavily for the part he played in my running away from home. He was forbidden from visiting us until Father intervened. He paid Mrs. Jaspers a visit and thanked her for allowing Lawrie to accompany me on my journey. She was downright speechless! Ever since we’ve been almost inseparable.

As for my classmates and my dear friend Harriet, they were all very sad to hear of your death. Father and I organized a wake for you once we got back, and everyone from school came. Our neighbors and friends, too. Beth played the piano, and we all talked of you and the light you shone in our small community. The help you so wholeheartedly gave everyone. Your spark and your determination. It was very nice — I am sure you would have liked it.

I have to go now. Life does seem to go on. Even without you. Painfully without you.

With eternal love and gratitude for all you have given me,

Your little bear.