Dear Madame Excellence Required,

I too am a mother of a child in want of a respectable marriage to a respectable family

We are a notable society family of considerable fortune, my daughters dowry is generous, her figure excellent, her face pretty, and her manners and social graces celebrated in her social circle. 

We should be delighted to discuss the potential of such a match - should the pair pass muster. 

Kind Regards,
Another Mother

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This second reply to her inquiry both made Poppy frown and laugh despite herself. She supposed she ought to be flattered that a mother had written to her thinking she was requesting suitable young ladies for her son, however, Poppy knew that the moment this woman discovered who she really was and her age, matters might change entirely. She couldn't allow her present circumstances to cheat Atticus of what could be a wonderful match so, deciding instead to conspire with her aunt, Poppy penned a separate letter and tucked the response from the woman she did not know into it.

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Please do not be cross with me when I admit to you my recent scheme.

I've sent in an advertisement to Witch Weekly on behalf of Atticus. It was the one entitled "Excellence Required."

I had hoped to vet the young ladies myself and help weed out those that were strictly sub-par, however, you'll find enclosed a response from someone who I can only surmise from the context would rather meet with you than with me. As I did not want to stand in the way of such a match, I've sent you both the inquiry and my sincerest hope that you might meet with this woman?

You know how much I adore Atticus and Basil both, and I hope you don't see this as an impertinence. It is only well meant.

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I should very much like to discuss this prospect. My eldest son is quite the dedicated young man and from what you've summarized, they could make a decent match.

Are you free for tea tomorrow at 2? I have enclosed an address if so, and look forward to our discussion.

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Mrs Foxwood,

That suits well,
I shall call tomorrow a the time you indicate. I look forward to seeing you then.

Kindly
Mrs. Eugenia Blackwood.

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