"The sunrise is beautiful,

I can see it across the window pane of my apartment,

And the chilling breeze and morning fog leaves water droplets on my window".

The morning is different".

I read your letter ten times till I remembered every word by heart.

I got the smoky blue envelope in the afternoon,

And to my surprise it was a letter of several pages.

Unusual of you, for the first time you wrote perfectly.

Word by word I read, and tears rolled down my cheeks.

[You wrote] –

"Though everything is beautiful around, nothing is as beautiful as the flowers in our verandah.

I often wonder how camellia can survive in our window in such weather."

While reading through the pages I went out into the verandah,

The flowers were certainly beautiful, and

Another tear rolled down.

I missed you so much and I knew you felt the same.

[You wrote] —

"The food is nice, rice and curry from seasonal herbs.

But I avoid fish, you know I don't like fish cooked by maids.

And the coffee always reminds me of you.

No one can make it as you do."

[I sighed]

Nowadays I seldom sip a mug, we have patronized green tea.

I walked from one end of the hall to another.

I knew that the maid was staring at me, and

Your mother had asked for me at least twice.

But I kept walking from one end to another.

I think, she knew it was your letter, and she had hurried off to the kitchen

In an attempt to hide her tears.

She needs you as much as I do.

Will you visit home this winter? Please,

Try to come.

[You wrote] –

"I wish you all were here, there are so many places to see.

Mother will like the market, all fresh herbs and fruits.

The air is good for papa's health.

There is a lake nearby,

You will love it, you can work wonders with canvas".

[I stop reading as more tears start to roll...] –

Days seem so dull, and nights are so quite.

My canvases don't please me anymore.

The studio needs a wash.

Dear, I wish that I can be honest while writing the reply.

I wish I can write down every single detail as you did.

Instead I will be careful with words.

I will write –

"Dear love, your letter was touchy. We too miss you here.

Everyone and everything is fine.

We are planning to paint the house.

What color shall we use, cream or blue?

Take care of yourself and let us know

When you are coming. – with love".

And I will wipe my tears and press the pen hard on the envelope, and

Write your address in bold.