Your mother seems to be in reasonably good spirits, considering. She sounded like herself, at least. She isn't entirely sure she'll be free to have visitors over hols, but the fact that she thinks she might is a good sign, I think.

She seems to be building a case for Lucius's invaluable contributions to the Protectorate, which is also hopeful. I laid it on a bit thick in my response, but I figure at least she knows I'm in agreement, and am willing to provide help to give her ammunition, even in token form.

Also. I might be able to pass Lucius a letter. She said she wasn't sure he'd be in a state to read it, or whether it'd get to him, but I will try. It'll have to be utterly without substance, of course. Still.