Domestic Poisons: clue #8

November 1, 1901

Dear Cousin,

I know you have said you do not like surprises, but Arthur has surprised me with a wonderful gift and I would like to pass my good fortune on to you in some way. My beloved husband purchased a new set of the finest cookware without telling me! Oh Charlotte, I cannot tell you how strange it feels to make dinner with brand new pots, pans, and cutlery. It is almost a shame, but at the same time I have never felt more like a wife and mother! And so, I have attached this letter to our heirloom cast iron pan. It is well-seasoned, just like the advice grandmother gave me with it (and frankly, grandmother herself). Do you remember? I do as though it was yesterday. She took me aside on mine and Arthur’s wedding day and told me that hefty cookware has protected women of all families from drunken husbands for generations. In her own words: “No thick skull, no matter how hard-headed or inebriated, is a match for cast iron. No temper can burn hotter than a stovetop”. 

I hope her witticisms can bring you some joy. I know that you have been having dark thoughts of late. Marriage is never easy. Motherhood is not easy either, but I do admit that it provides a welcome distraction at times. Still, I feel no need for a blunt instrument to solve our domestic troubles. When Arthur has a bit too much, the worst he does is snore! I doubt you will need it for James either, though it does sound like his head is among the hardest there is. I think instead that a good, hot meal may put you both in better spirits. Remember as you prepare  dinner for you and your husband on this pan that women before us have cooked for husbands before ours. Children or no, you are part of this family, and you deserve satisfaction. Do let me know how you like it!

Sincerely,

Maude