28th May, 1894

Alcyone,

"Daughter of Mr. Ambrose and Mrs. Annie Bell"?! I have included today's Prophet article about Sunday evening's festivities in case you have not yet seen it, though I wonder if it is worth reading if they get something so simple so woefully incorrect.

Annie is lovey, of course, but she is not my mother—scarcely even raised me, as I was well off to school by the time she and Papa married. You are fortunate you lack a stepmother to be attached to as though your own mother never existed.

I do not why it bothers me so; it is not as if I intend to engage in the Season where such details matter. Neither parent will ever be mentioned once I am a quidditch sensation, unless it is to note that Papa used to play for the Wasps. Of our circle, though, I knew that if anyone were to understand, it would be you.

Please send news of the outside world; the incident in the boats* has left me with quite the cold and Annie won't let me out to play until I stop sniffling.