Honoured Lords and Ladies,
It has come to the attention of this humble guardsman that the
erruption of brawls within the taverns of the dock district has
increased greatly in the last few months. The numbers of muggings
and murders have also increased. Bloated bodies with their throats
and purses cut have frequently been discovered at low tide.
Thus, I advise all of you not to wander into the waterside
districts unescorted or poorlly armed; and after dark, not at all.
As the carrying of swords by the populace within the city walls is
frowned upon, I suggest one should at least bring a lengthy dirk or
dagger, or possibly some farm implement or carpenter's tool that
can be utilized in self defence, should one find oneself
unfortunate enough to have business in the high risk district.
It is well known that most of the liveliest taverns, as well as
houses of earthly comforts, can be found in the above mentioned
area, and the ranks of the city guard are simply not vast enough to
protect every amorous rogue that wishes to tempt fate by not
heeding this warning. Thus I instruct all that turn a blind eye to
this worthy notice to settle their accounts and make peace with
their gods, as the city coffers cannot spare proper burials for all
that meet their end under a red lantern's glow, with a belly full
of cheap wine, in the early tides of the Eoforwic harbour.
There will be more news as it comes and the proper authorities are
informed; the Hounourable Mayor and her Dreadfulness the Sheriff
are far too busy to attend to every local complaint. The cogs of
bureaucracy can turn very slowly, so monetary "lubrication" can
always be utilized to ensure the safety of prominent citizens.
Special "protection" payments can also be made directly but
discreetly to any guardsmen who patrols the harbour district.
In honour and service, with the "best" interests of the populace in
mind...
Bjarn the Blackfish
(Currently Guarding the beautiful waterside neighbourhoods of our
fair city...)
