July 1, 1859

Dear Lucy,

That is not a very good thing, what your weight is compared to your height.  You need to fatten up, and desperately.  What did you weigh when you were with Julia?

And no, I cannot tell you much about me, other than I have seen many  things that normal people are not able to see.

This was just outside of Dublin, heading to southern Ireland.  Yes, your grandmother was an immigrant.  Your great-great-uncle Stephan disappeared in broad daylight, yet no one saw him.  And yes, your great-grandfather Joseph was his younger brother.  Three years his junior, actually.  Let me get on with the tale.

Now, I believe that I mentioned the fact that they went through many hardships in life.  Well, that is entirely true.  Fatigue and hunger struck them at every turn, choices at every path.  And one day, Julia’s father fell ill.

He told her, “I do not think I will be able to go on any further, child.  Please find Stephan for me, and tell him that I love him.”

“But Father,” Julia argued, hot headed as always, “you will make it!  I will make sure of it.”

He smiled knowingly and replied, “There is nothing that you can do.  You will have to search for your uncle on your own.  Or with help, as Thomas may choose to do.  Just know that whatever you choose in life, you have my blessings with every decision.  Farewell, my dear child.”

Your grandmother did not believe that he had died when he closed his eyes, no matter how many times Thomas checked for signs of life and reported that there were none.  Julia ignored him and sat by her father’s side, not drinking or eating a single bite, never sleeping though her body called out for rest.  And Thomas was powerless against it.

Now, tell me about the MacJohns.  What evil and torturous things have they done this time?

Sincerely, Safiya