Lucky Elf

On the first day they got their uniforms. “I expect you elves to be clean and tidy,” said Mr Jessop to Meg, Angela and Tod. Meg liked the striped green and white tights, but was not so keen on the long thick red felt skirt. It was a bit stiff and new. Meg wished she…

A Bigger Tree Each Year

6th December My Dear Caitlin, Here’s hoping you are enjoying the big city. Granny says how was the chicken she sent?  It’s the usual frost and storms here. The ballroom flooded, what a mess. But we are cosy in the kitchen and plenty kindling since the stables blew down. Talking of wood, Uncle Kenny is…

Water Sweet as Death

The Thames runs salt, strong and brown. Faint flavour remains in my fingers, rubbing sore gums. Grey strands trickle past my waist and my sodden hem oozes mud into footprints on the floor. I squint at the other passengers through the bright-lit air. They don’t like my dank person. Why should they? I am repulsive,…