The query letter has been printed, proofed (by me and Kiwi) and signed. The stiff, oversize envelope purchased specifically for this effort (more attention grabbing, right?) has been discarded in favor of a simple business envelope. The stamp has been attached to the upper right corner, the address carefully transcribed in my atrocious handwriting.

Into the blue public mailbox query letter number one goes. My heart drops as the metal lid clangs closed.