Page 7 of Lady Emily’s Matchmaking Mishap (Merry Spinsters, Charming Rogues #5)

Dear Fenn,

Coquelicot is French, you know. It means a bright poppy red, though my favourite colour is violet. Sadly, violet does not suit my hair, so perhaps coquelicot is the better choice after all.

Yes, that noisy little urchin you may have heard is indeed me. Though I might be poor, I am learning French! Papa says that, though we are poorer than church mice, we are rich in the treasures of the mind. When I am not reading, practising arithmetic, or reciting my French lessons, I roam the forest and sing. They call me Little Wren because, they say, I sing like one.

Yours truly,

Little Wren

My dear Little Wren,

I have enclosed your coquelicot ribbon. You cannot imagine the trouble I went through to procure it! But for you, it was worth every effort. May it bring you great joy.

Your humble forest fay,

Fenn

My dearest Fenn,

Thank you, thank you, thank you—a thousand thanks for the most beautiful ribbon I have ever seen! I feel as though I might fly with happiness! Never have I owned anything so fine.

I have been twirling and singing all day, and now everyone thinks me quite mad. Perhaps I am mad—mad with joy!

Yours most gratefully,

Little Wren

P.S. How might I show my gratitude? Is there a wish I might grant you in return, my dear forest fay?

My dear Little Wren,

That such a small scrap of fabric could bring so much happiness leaves me utterly astonished! Still, I am glad beyond words that you enjoy it so.

Your obedient servant,

Fenn

P.S. I do have one wish, Little Wren. Sing for me—only for me.