Father Christmas Letters: 1942
 

Once again there is no picture to go with this year's letter, but the facsimile shows that Tolkien wrote it with Father Christmas' customary shaky handwriting, a few more elaborate capital letters, and a vine-like pattern on the edge. There are also three candles at the end - my first thought is that they could stand for the three "boys" of the family, who are now grown up, so that only Priscilla corresponds with FC. Of course, I have no proof for that thought, so it's open to debate.

The war affects the supplies of presents, FC writes, and deliveries are difficult, with homeless families and damaged houses. PB says that the "cellars are full of empty places" - a nice turn of phrase! PB also sent a present for one of Priscilla's bears (Billy), possibly something to eat, since FC caught him in the pantry.

I just realized that Ilbereth has disappeared from the letters without explanation - he last wrote in 1938. I wonder why - perhaps Christopher was the child most interested in elves, and Priscilla, with all the toy bears, likes NPB better?