Mother has agreed that she will make a quilt and when she is finished she will choose one of the suitors to be her husband. Father I hope with all of my heart that you return before then. Mother told me of her promise to you, and although I do not yet have a beard I am determined grow one. I hope that you have not forgot about us. We pray to Athena everyday so she will make your journey home a safe one.
There is one thing you may not be aware of I am afraid, Grandmother has taken her life. She was so full of grief over losing you that she had taken her life.
I would like to come and find you, because I am one of the few who still has hope that you are alive. Mother’s love for you has not faded, so I hope that yours has not either. It upsets me to watch her be so lonely.
I would like you to know that if you do not return home I plan to be as great of a ruler that you were. I know that one day I will make you proud.
Your son,