Dear Betty,
I was shopping at the used bookstore off of main and peach and I came across this copy of The Rubáiyát of Bridge and thought of you. When I saw these illustrations inside by May Wilson Preston, I knew that you would love this book. It shares your two favorite pastimes, art and bridge! In addition, it is written by Carolyn Wells, an author who I know you enjoy reading after discovering her book At the Sign of the Sphinx. I also thought you would appreciate the small size of this edition, as it will fit well on your bookshelves (perhaps next to your copy of Anne of Green Gables?).
One such illustration reminds me of your husband and his incessant need to gaze over our shoulders as we play. Look at the illustration that is paired with the words “But he who Stands Beside you, Looking On,– He knows it all! He Knows!! He Knows!!!” I could only laugh at the accuracy of this illustration, it even looks like John! We must bug him again about sharing his knowledge of others cards when we does this. Otherwise he is not allowed to watch any longer!
One such quote from the book that I know you will see humour in is “I’ve played with Players of all sorts, - but I have never beaten anything, - but Fools!” We have had this very conversation after our sore loss to the Smiths’!
I hope you enjoy this edition my dear friend!
Your friend,
Margaret