//------------------------------//
// Chapter 3, letter #1,201 
// Story: The Masquerade 
// by Uncle Knot 
//------------------------------//

To my charming and determined Princess Celestia, in the 99th YR, my 1,201st letter
Notes from my interviews;

Cloud Runner - Captain Spear’s orderly, newest soldier in the guard, everything by the book, “yes sir, no sir”, scared, “buck up soldier, you can’t help anyone being afraid”.

The Baroness Lady Sophia Onyx – elderly, rheumatism in right foreleg, knows how to say nothing and mean something, likes roses.

Ringing Sweet - Court pastry chef, in his 8th year, complains that ponies are not eating as much as normal, annoyed at the expanded production for the Gala, on good terms with co-workers.

Lord Dash Diamond the exchequer – flashy, not what I’d expect from a purse string holder, likes feathers, sharp eyed, spotted my accounting mistakes quickly.

Iron Hoff the smithy – gruff, straight to the point, been noticing tools moving about the shop on their own, not at all happy to have Dodger making magic items in shop, likes onions.

Snow Stone - Sergeant of the guard, veteran, tells long stories that don’t say anything, except to hide her nervousness.
You - implacable, putting on your best face, beautiful, mischievously teasing me about Am Dodger.

Grail Grate - the royal cupbearer, new to Canterlot, easily awed, comes from a long line of winemakers, too eager.
Viscount Apricot Emerald the Seneschal – pompous bookkeeper, defensive when pushed, dutiful, slow imagination, honest, enjoys a good joke.

So after interviewing the last ponies to have contact with Captain Sharp Spear, I can conclude nothing.  This is so frustrating.  A review of his notes disclosed nothing either.  We still do not know what we are looking for or who our enemy is.  Nor do we know what this enemy’s motive is.  One thing is certain; ponies do not evaporate from here without going someplace.  Considering the range of most teleporters, the guard will start searching empty rooms, buildings and warehouses.  I think I will have a surprise inspection of the barracks this evening.  I am also changing up the guard duties and reinforcing locations.

Tomorrow, if nothing should reveal itself tonight, I will continue interviews with more staff members and guard units.  I hope also to encounter Lord & Lady Jasper; they showed me kindness during my last visit to Canterlot.   The residence of Holly the Magnificent should be seal off until her return.  Leave that to me.  

Share this report with no pony.  Thou wert wise to recall me and mine.  Our generosity, kindness, loyalty, humor and trustworthiness are with thee; Sum-po-neigh Knot Yew.