My dear Herman,

I write to you in this, the darkest of times. Our lands may be on the edge of conflict and despair, but I hope that our fellow search will not be distributed. The struggle between Fascism and Democracy should not impede our quest for Non-Nerichian Truth. As we both were tested before we formed, as we both will die before the ship sinks.

Once we were young, playful, in the Mures Valley. Almonds abundant, spirits strong. In these days, one can lose hope. We must never betray our search.

I am sure you already agree. However, this has to be mentioned. We must draw wisdom from our fellow friend and seeker, Niels.

Yours truly,

Jean DeWire

Excerpt from correspondence between Jean DeWire and Herman Ploppel, 1939.