when we withdrew DD5 from her school last year, i wrote the emotional letter and then edited it down until it contained virtually no content that could damage us. even if it was passed around, which was quite likely, i wanted it to reflect our departure in a positive light.

this school had refused to accommodate DD's needs while she was actually their student all year long. now that i was withdrawing her, i realized there was no possible way this letter would teach them anything new. you simply can't teach that which someone doesn't want to learn.

so the final letter was brief, businesslike and positive. i thanked the people who had made good-faith efforts on DD5's behalf, and wished everyone well in the future. it felt good.

Every Sunday it brooded and lay on the floor. Inconveniently close to the drawing-room door.