from: janeqt646@gmail.com
to: r.whitcomb@whitbensoco.uk
subject: Hi
Dear Robert,
Sorry I have not written to you in ages. A lot has happened this side of the pond. Tricia recently graduated from Columbia and I have been helping her with job applications and finding a place to live. We spent all of last week visiting dreadful apartments in the Village that cost an arm and a leg. At this rate, I fear she will be living with me until I die. I love her to bits of course, but I can’t bear the thought of having to spend one more day sharing the same roof.
I always envisioned I could finally have some time to myself to travel and think about what comes next. But it is looking less and less likely. Most days you’ll find me at the usual spot, drinking espressos and reading book reviews at Jack’s Café.
I must stop with all the moaning or I risk boring you to death.
How are you? How is life in the Lowlands these days? Still seeing that young Austrian researcher?
I must dash, old friend, I promised a girlfriend of mine to help with their fundraiser. Save the Children of Syria. How could I refuse?
Kisses and hugs,
Jane xx
from: r.whitcomb@whitbensoco.uk
to: janeqt646@gmail.com
subject: Re: Hi
My dearest Jane,
Come on now, Tricia is a great girl, she’ll be out of your hair soon enough and then you will miss those days when you could spend time shopping together at Barney’s or the MoMa.
I hear you about travelling. That road trip around South America we have been talking about for 45 years never materialised. That brings back to mind our fun times when we were two slightly awkward students at Parsons. Just you and I against the world. Remember that infamous kiss?
Why don’t you come and visit? The Lowlands are awfully lonely without you. Besides, a change of scene might be just what you need. You can spend your days in deep reflection, going for walks in the country. I’ll promise to prepare a fire, roast and scotch for your return. Sound tempting enough? I’m quite serious, Jane. Promise you’ll have a think about it. I miss your company. I’m becoming a grumpy old git according to some sources.
Fondly,
Robert
PS: Re Austrian researcher, I have replaced her with a Mexican singer. But I don’t want to bore you with my love life.
from: janeqt646@gmail.com
to: r.whitcomb@whitbensoco.uk
subject: Re: Hi
Robert, you know exactly how to tempt a woman. That Mexican lady friend of yours is lucky.
Alright, let’s say that if Tricia finds a place and a job, I might consider (and I say might) gracing you with my presence. If the offers of fireplaces, roasts and walks are true, then it sounds far more appealing than grumpy Manhattan taxi drivers and over-cheerful waitresses and salesmen. It might just be the change of scene I have been looking for.
I will keep you apprised of any developments.
Warmly,
Jane
PS: You and I are great friends, but we never made a good couple. And I certainly don’t want any ménage-à-trois business. Promise you will be on your best behaviour?