Another postcard from Rupert

Hi Mom and Dad,

There is a lot going on here. The most exciting thing is that Jessie arranged for me to meet up with my friend Ferney and we raced over fields. Jessie asked me not to run off into the woods or chase deer or rabbits because she was worried I might disappear altogether. Did she mean that I might get lost? Moi? Jamais!

But I agreed so I could go on that walk with Ferney. We set off and I was especially good in her car while driving to the meeting place. I didn't whine or squeal at all. When I met Ferney I behaved really well… until we picked up the scent of a deer and raced into the woods. I thought Jessie was going to faint. But I came back to her quickly. Her face was a bit white but I showed her it was only a bit of sport and how good I am at it. She hugged me.

Going home in her car she asked me to sit on the back seat. I know better, so I stayed standing. But Jessie had to stop a little suddenly and I over-balanced. So now I am going to sit in her car. In fact, I find I prefer it: I look better — more regal as Jessie chauffeurs me along — and I can easily survey the fields from the partially opened windows. My ears get to swing a little too.

Linda, I am pleased you gave Jessie that lesson on post-walk grooming.

Here I am in the photo having a “funky toiletage chez Jessie”. Not bad, eh? Afterwards, I insisted Jessie gave me my dinner before she suggested we went off to harvest yet another bucket of tomatoes from that dreaded potager. Boy, I can tell you a potager is hard work — and it distracts her from the really important things in life like cuddling me, feeding me or letting me take her on another walk.

I am sorry I didn't write yesterday, but life is good here — very hectic. And oh yes, I have given Jessie’s barn builders invaluable instruction whenever they seemed stuck. I am sure Jessie and the builders couldn't have done without me. But I am looking forward to seeing you tomorrow. I shall sit in Jessie's car and be safe.

I mustn't forget to remind Jessie to bring my bed, the grooming basket and most importantly, the box of bickies. Please have my chicken aux fines herbes ready for me. It’s been fun here. I like sleeping next to the Aga, I tried sleeping next to her bed, but I like my bed here with a view — and next to the Aga.

I have just overheard a phone conversation to say that I am going home. I have enjoyed my visit here to Jessie's. I should have guessed something was up this morning we are out at the crack of dawn in the mist for a long walk. I let Jessie give me the left over chicken breast cooked in herbs, lemons and oranges that she made for Ferney's mom the other night for breakfast. Though why she wiped off all the sauce I'll never know. Still it was delicious.

I see she's beginning to pack up my stuff.

See you soon.

Your boy

Rupert