36 Penny Meadow
Ashton-under-Lyne
Dear Miss Juliet
I am deeply grieved at the sad news of your letter. I know how sad it is for you at this time, and I have the deepest of sympathy for all the family although I have left Badsey for three and a half years my feeling is just the same as though I left yesterday. I wish I was nearer so that I could have seen Mrs Sladden once again. She was so gentle and sweet in life so that I am sure she looks beautiful now. I cannot express my feelings for you all at this sad time. It was strange but since Saturday I have scarcely had Badsey out of my thoughts. I have been thinking of the house or the garden or some member of the family, and then this morning I received your sad letter. If I had lost a member of my own family I could not have grieved more than I have today. I have always thought of Mrs Sladden as the nicest lady I ever knew. If there were a few more people like her, the world would be a better place. I hope Mr Sladden and all the family are keeping as well as can be expected during this sad time. I shall be pleased to hear more from you later on when you feel you can write again. I meant to write to Miss Ethel before Easter but the business claimed my full attention but I will do so shortly.
With my best wishes and deepest sympathy for the family.
I remain
Yours sincerely
Alice Jines
