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My dear Kiku,
Oh, how joyful I am to be writing you as we embark upon this new year! I am firmly resolved that it is most beneficial to our alliance to continue correspondence even while apart. I trust that this letter finds you in good health and spirits.
I am, all things considered, faring well in this new year. This past Christmas was exceedingly merry as I hosted a party, as is my custom, with many of my dear friends in attendance. Even my Big Brother Francis spared a visit from across the pond, much to my delight. My brother Matthew attended as well despite many objections from Arthur, who chose to abstain from joining us. I need not elaborate on the reasons for his absence, as I am sure you can surmise. Nonetheless, the party was a rousing good time with dozens of human companions joining us for gift giving, drinking, and laughing well into the night.
As I write this letter, it has occurred to me, I fear, that I have never inquired about what customs you celebrate instead of Christmas. I would be most eager to hear of your traditions, whatever they may be. I imagine they must be rich with meaning, for your people seem to imbue all things with beauty and significance. Am I correct in assuming that Christmas, being a Christian tradition, is not among your celebrations? Yet surely, you must have some merry traditions of your own. Humanity is funny that way in which they are always making holidays, no matter which corner of the world they reside in. Although, I suppose there are always those who have no business in being merry– true humbugs, as Mr. Dickens might say.
Speaking of which, have you read A Christmas Carol or Charles Dickens’ other works? If you have not read A Christmas Carol, I will most certainly be pleased to ship you a copy. It is one of my favorite tales alongside Oliver Twist. You might find it surprising to know that I am an avid reader. In my youth, when I was but a colony awaiting Arthur’s return from across the sea, I would spend hours poring over the books in our home, reading them again and again. I could not even guess at how much Shakespeare I have read!
Another book that has occupied my thoughts as of late is Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe. Have you read it? Though it has been nearly a decade since its publication, I recently revisited it in light of the political unrest here in my home. The story details the horrors of slavery and brought about a huge impact among humans in both the North and South, stirring great debates. Humanity calls to me with its potential for kindness and connection, yet I remain confounded by its capacity for cruelty toward one another.
You, who have walked this Earth far longer than I, must have observed this paradox many times over. I find myself curious– what are your thoughts on humanity’s tendency toward cruelty? Do you believe it an inherent flaw, or something that might be overcome with time and understanding? I find myself pondering this query as of late.
In my home, time is marching us towards another presidential election, a big event indeed. My fate rests in the hands of the people, once more, as I await to discover who my new boss will be. The Republican Party, newly formed, is making its first strides, with Mr. William Seward as its likely candidate, though this will not be determined until May. Meanwhile, the Democratic and Constitutional Union parties have yet to decide their champions. The Democratic party’s future remains increasingly uncertain involving states rights policies.
Just over a month ago there was an incident involving a human named John Brown– he was executed for the crime of attempting to incite a slave rebellion in October. His name is on every tongue, his deeds praised by some and condemned by others. It seems the divide between the North and South widens with each passing day.
Enough of this dreary news! I may be a young nation still finding my way, but I believe I will endure these trials and emerge stronger for it. Have you faced such trials within your own borders, where the very fabric of unity is tested? If so, I would value any wisdom you might offer.
I look forward to your reply, for your words are always a source of great insight to me. And do let me know about Mr. Dickens! Until then, I remain,
Yours ever sincerely,
Alfred F. Jones