Dearest Joe and Biddy,
It has been too long since I last wrote or spoke to you. My life has been a whirlwind of activity since the mercantile firm has over the last five years reached the extremes of poverty and wealth. Herbert has married Clara and they are expecting a child in the next few months. I've never seen Herbert so happy. He refuses to let my bachelorhood go unpunished and sets me up with the most... interesting women. I fear my heart has been irrevocably stolen and I am doomed to a life of solitude. But I am not dissatisfied; I have a steady job with pleasant company, and I am content.
I must confess I know nothing of Estella's whereabouts or doings. We met one final time in the old garden of Satis House and I was sure we were to be together forever, but as usual my expectations proved incorrect. Estella is not ready to feel love, and I fear she may never be. It is possible her heart was forever hardened by her years at Satis House, yet I can not deny the subtle hope that one day we will meet again, and will never part. But my thoughts stray into dangerous - and often travelled - territory.
I have heard you have taken on a new apprentice. I wish you luck; it seems your apprentices tend not to stay long. I often wonder what life is like back at home. It is strange to think I still consider that small house by the forge as my true home, and not the place I am now. Perhaps it is because I know I have family there, and family is truly the greatest treasure. It has taken many painful years to learn this lesson, and now that I know what is truly important, I feel a fool for not realizing it sooner. If I may impose myself upon you, I would like to come visit soon. I miss you both terribly.
Yours,
Pip
Cheeses of Nazareth Community Member 
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