Fiona, I have the worst guilty conscience ! Trying to remember back, I think I never wrote to you about Merrybegotten after I finished it. I read it straight through, and liked it ever so much. It is wonderful that you actually HAD Orkney forbears and know enough about them and their lives to write this fascinating book. So I apologize to you; I know I wrote to tell you that I had re- ceived it and was halfway through. Thanks for this great exper- ience. And congratulations............. Otherwise, this hasn't been the most excitiing year - certainly not travel-wise. Maybe another year........... It is now starting to show definite signs of winter - fairly cold today and blustery, but at least bright and clear. The high winds and rain brought down a lot of the leaves, but it still is beautiful. Lots of color left. I hope that you are fine and starting your next venture into the literary world. Interesting that there is mail today - just when I had decided that I'd been sent to Coventry ! I DO miss the contact with Orkney. Have you ever been there in the winter? I can't wait to hear from Bruce over the next few months. He, too, has a way with words, and makes me see exactly what is happening. Must get on with it ! Cheers Flo