Dear Mr Townsend, I hope this letter finds you well and enjoying pleasant weather. Here

in Essex, a little north of London, we have suffered heavy rain of late but look forward

to more delicate Spring weather.

I have been handed a letter from yourself by Lady Braybrooke who has asked that I send

you a taste of England - and in particular dishes she enjoys here at Audley End House.

I have tried my best to send you items that I've read are not commonly eaten or indeed

cooked in America.

Please find within a fruit cake, or often called a plum cake. This cake is much loved

by all in England and the recipe I've used comes from a very special cook - Mr Francatelli,

and therefore could be used for any special occasion if suitably decorated.

I have enclosed some tea, as I believe we are famous for our tea drinking. Laterly,

we have seen quite an explosion in India teas and this is a tea that both myself and Lady

Braybrooke greatly prefer.

Finally I enclose a seed cake, a plain but popular cake. It is an old recipe and I believe

in history they coated the caraway seeds in sugar. Today it is often enjoyed with fortified

wine.

I have also included, for your reference, the recipes of each of the cakes. I hope you

enjoy them.

If you have a moment to send me a few lines to say you have recieved my parcel in good

order I would be greatful.

Yours respectfully, Avis Crocombe. Cook to Lord Braybrooke.