My dear little Sonichka,
I hear from Mathilde that your brother has been killed at the front. The idea that you have this fresh blow to endure is a great shock to me. Lately there has been one trouble after another.
And yet I cannot be with you, to cheer you up a little! ... I am uneasy, too, at the thought of your mother, wondering how she will bear this new sorrow. These are sad days, and all of us have lost many of our loved ones. As during the siege of Sebastopol, every month seems a year. I do hope I shall be able to see you soon, for I am longing to do so. How did your hear about your brother? through your mother, or direct? What news of your other brother?
I did so much want to send you something by Mathilde, and I had absolutely nothing but the little coloured kerchief; don’t make fun of it; I only sent it to show that I love you. Write a line or two as soon as you can, to let me know you are all right.
Love to Karl and your dear self.
Your
Rosa
Much love to the children.
Last updated on: 16.12.2008