6th February, 1891
Dearest Verity,
As I have heard nothing to the contrary, I must assume that you are well, though I do miss you. By now, you've no doubt heard from Noble how utterly awful I was in the potion-brewing competition; other than this embarrassing defeat, I assure you that there is very little in my life to remark upon at present.
I confess that I cannot help but feel a bit jealous of late; while I relish the freedom that Hogwarts provides, I do rather miss being under the same roof as the rest of our family, and feel dreadfully left out whenever I think of all that must be happening. I know your Season has not yet properly begun, but surely you are finding all sorts of social interludes to occupy yourself nonetheless? The most recent Witch Weekly, I know, listed a number of events in the coming weeks—do tell me all that transpires!
I did hear of your unfortunate brew, I apologize for not inquiring about it sooner. You have my sympathies, of course. Potion brewing can be so terribly complex, the likely cause of why I never pursued it past my OWLs. You're braver than I, my dear sister.
Enjoy your time at Hogwart's while it lasts. I often find myself dreaming of the view from the Astronomy Tower. Nothing ever seemed quite as striking as the starlit sky at night.
As for the Season, there's not been much to comment upon as of yet. I am looking forward to the Sonata next week, though that's more for the music than for any hope of conversation. We'll be able to share all our tales once you're home for the summer, it isn't too long now.
9th February, 1891
Dearest Verity,
It does feel terribly long, though, when I am here and everyone else is there! Not, of course, that I wish to hasten the completion of my studies, but proper news of the outside world would not go amiss in the slightest. Shall you really make me wait until JUNE to hear tales of your adventures?
I ought to make you wait just to keep the suspense alive. You won't have to wait until June, of course, as Grace's coming out will likely be before school concludes for the year.
Since I'm not a cruel woman, though, I'll divulge some details of the Sonata last night. There were the most interesting dancers throughout the evening, contortionists I heard some refer to them as. They were fascinating to watch. One was even able to tuck his legs behind over his shoulders!
I did have some bland conversations with some gentlemen. Nothing of note to comment upon there.
16th February, 1891
Dearest Verity,
I am glad to learn that the evening was engaging, even if the gentlemen were not. I have little doubt that you were something of a success yourself; any gentleman would be entirely blessed to have you upon his arm! Do not settle for a dullard, though; any gentleman who cannot keep up with us at family dinners is sure to make a tedious husband indeed.
A dullard, while infuriating, would be tolerated under the correct circumstances. I will endeavor to find someone of great wit for your sake, though. I would hate for you to have to suffer through dull dinner conversations.
Have you spoken to Ford about your dress for Grace's debut, yet? You will be there, of course, if only to see a taste of the life that will soon be yours, too. Although, like me, you will likely not have your own party. Provided no one else dies, of course.
21st February, 1891
Dearest Verity,
Our brother and I have recently had a disagreement on how to appropriately furnish me with appropriate items, clothing or otherwise, and so I am allowing him the opportunity to mellow before mentioning anything that might possibly require him to spend his time or money on me.
Also, I am quite certain I have something suitable to wear already; no need to reinvent the wheel for what is to be Grace's night!
He has been rather tight with the purse strings, hasn't he? We most certainly didn't receive our many listed gifts for Christmas, anyway. What did you need? Perhaps I can be of assistance in the future. Mama and I enjoy our shopping trips, after all.
Of course you will need a new dress. All eyes will be upon our family — Grace's day or not. I'll bring it up to Mama on your behalf.
25th February, 1891
Dearest Verity,
You are an angel. I am far too contrary to announce as much with any regularity, so I expect you will treasure this letter until your dying day.
I look forward to seeing you on the next Hogsmeade week-end!
It was a delight to have you home for Easter. I have a renewed joy for this upcoming summer so that we might all be together again.
Has Ford reinstated your allowance yet?