Private Message to Nicola and Gabriel Burdett-Coutts

Just heard the WWN advert for the weekend's fête. Good show: it's just the thing. And the window displays along the Strand and Regents Street are gorgeous. Everyone's talking about them.

Braithewaite has everything in place for the Protectorate Security Society's deployment at Hyde Park and along the routes leading there. Marveille Corelle was by this morning to show off the sashes she's made all event staff and for the PSS. I hope you've seen them: they're brilliant and will be just the festive touch to keep PSS from appearing too authoritarian.

(On the other side of things, Wreston's coordinating the MLE and Auror presence. Trust him to mobilise just the right mix of visible and undercover enforcement. We intend that everything will go as absolutely smoothly as the Little Venice weekend did.)

What report can you give me about the arrival of the Merfolk to the Serpentine? Is that still on for this afternoon? Hedigan's taking point on that for the Ministry. Be sure he's present to give the necessary welcome and assurances.

Any concerns on your side? If there's anything I need to know, contact me directly or via Catchlove. If you call, tell my functionaries you need to speak directly to one or the other of us. Seriously. Don't leave a message. Particularly if it's anything sensitive.

We're all looking forward to a simply enchanting weekend on the Serpentine! Thank you for all you do, both of you!

Bisoux.

Private Message to Orion Sandoval

Why are Harrods' windows not displaying Nicola's SumMer Fête installations? I don't like to worry Papa with such things, but I'm very disappointed about this. We should be first in loyalty!

Honestly, Orion. What is going on over there?

Private Message to Luisa snd Orion Sandoval

Abuelita,

I'm so glad you can come for tea. Orion's just on his way to collect you and bring you here. I've been wanting to show you where I'm working and give you a tour of the palace. It really is something! Oh, and I can show you all of Nicola and Gabriel's drawings for the weekend's festivities. I think you'll agree that I've got the best, most interesting position in all the Protectorate.

I asked Abueloberto if he couldn't come when he's done for the day and join us. I haven't heard back yet, but I do hope he'll find time. He works too hard!


Orion: you're on strict orders not to drive too fast. I know what you're like when you've got that carriage team in hand, but remember whom you're driving!



Turkish Delight.

Private Message to Antosha

All should be ready in half an hour. The message has been sent, and I can't imagine she'll delay. Or have any qualms. Goodness knows we've worried for ages that it could happen any time.

Thank you. I'm not sure how I'll be able to repay you, but know that you've only to ask and I will do anything in my power.