To: Mr. Stephen James
From: Harriet Tubman

Dear Stephen,

I am sorry for the delay. Unfortunately, my dog passed away yesterday. This dog was all I had in the world, and I am very sad about it. Her name was Howie, and we were very close. Please understand that this will take me some time.

Additional Thoughts:

I was becoming with my own story line, so I thought it was time to introduce a new character, along with some personal tragedy. Introducing, Howie. The dead dog who never was.