Yes, we are all very much alive and kicking, though rather exhausted from a hectic summer, with hordes of tourists from U. S. A., France, Scandinavia, etc., all buying our nice leatherbound books. Consequently our stock at the moment is a sorry sight, and with the shortage of books and high prices there is little hope of finding any Jane Austen for you in time for your friend's birthday. Perhaps we will be able to find them for her for Christmas.

Nora and the girls are fine. Sheila is teaching, Mary is engaged to a very nice boy but there is little hope of them getting married for some time as neither has any money! So Nora's hopes of being a glamorous grandmother are receding fast.

Dear Helene,

Love,

Frank