Reading the latest letter response from Ms. Malfoy with a grin on his face, Basil set it aside and pulled out a fresh piece of parchment. He wasn't so terribly smug to be turning the tables on his brother as much as he was glad to have something occupy Atticus' time more than Basil's own affairs. He had come to genuinely like Ms. Victoire Malfoy and to him at least, she embodied all of the best qualities a debutant ought to have: grace, elegance, a sense of humor and, most importantly, a clever wit. If Basil was of the mind to marry at the moment, she would be as acceptable a choice as any. In light of this fact, and the fact that he had come to appreciate Ms. Malfoy's company, the only logical choice was to launch her onto Atticus. If possible, Basil was keen on the idea of actually liking his future sister in law, and having his own friendly relationship with her. Despite his brother's pickiness, he couldn't be sure that Atticus would choose someone that suited Basil if left to his own affairs so Basil felt no sympathy whatsoever in meddling. He had his own best interests to look out for too, after all. He just hoped his mama would agree that Victoire was a better match for Atticus than himself...

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Please indulge your youngest child for just a moment and remember for me that we've invited the young Ms. Malfoy over for tea on Saturday.

I rather think it a worthwhile venture to introduce her to Atticus. For all his provoking of my own interests, I feel Ms. Malfoy is a darling girl and should make him a suitable match when he's at his worst. She is clever, elegant, and well-bred, all things I know you cannot possibly object.

I shall be home on Friday to attend my brother's purple predicament, so by Saturday - 2pm, when she comes by to answer your most gracious invitation - we ought to all be right as rain.

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