All That Lingers by Irene Wittig

Author:Irene Wittig [Wittig, Irene]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Irene Wittig

44

Vienna

Frau Mandl did not make it to spring, dying peacefully in her sleep one snowy night in March. Emma did not return to Blutgasse after that.

Martin must have passed by Ungargasse once for Emma found a small package with marmalade and biscuits marked For Hannah hidden in the umbrella stand outside the apartment door.

Then one day in May a large box with jars and tins was left downstairs with the Hausbesorgerin. For Miss Emma Huber, it said in a large block letters. Nothing after that—not until summer when a thin blue envelope arrived, postmarked Watersmeet and addressed in Martin’s hand. Emma put it in her pocket and did not open it until Hannah went to bed. Then she poured herself a glass of wine, and sat down at the kitchen table to read.

Dear Emma,

I've been staying with Mrs. Grünbaum and Valerie for a few days while my uncle fixes up the little flat above his shop so that I can take over when he retires next month.

Sadly, my father died shortly after my return to England. He'd been ill a long time and I was grateful to the Army for making it possible for me to be there at the end, though I think it was a part of their decision to "lessen overseas commitments" rather than any compassion for me personally. There are many who would need it far more. After my return I worked in different parts of England until I was finally discharged last week.

I'm glad to be a civilian again, and am happy to be home, but I hated not being able to say goodbye. I was working outside of Vienna when I was notified that my father was failing. I had barely a day to pack up and no way to reach you. I asked some friends to make sure you two had enough food. I hope they kept their word.

I know you will take good care of Hannah. Let her do the same for you.

your friend always,

Martin

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