Tues, October the 8th, 1894

Dearest Cousin Dahlia,

I find myself troubled lately by the recent behavior of a roommate of mine with one of her friends —a young man, no less! She seems to believe she is being discrete, yet I can hardly imagine anyone has failed to noticed how casually she acts around him. Now, while I don't suspect anything untoward, it's clear that they are quite close, perhaps more than she realizes.

Everything we're taught about propriety in our etiquette lessons seems to urge more formality and distance around the opposite sex. And there must be good sense for the discipline we maintain, else why would it be taught so strongly, or exceptions be so vividly —even harshly— judged? Why, should I chance to pick up a copy of Witch Weekly, I am almost certain to find a reminder of how poorly such lapses are viewed by Society.

The trouble is, cousin, I believe she truly does value the friendship with this young man. I could no sooner step between them than I could swear off Miss Moony or Miss Gillenwater myself. It almost feels cruel to consider intervening when her only lapse in judgement is the unfortunate circumstance of his being born the wrong sex. Nevertheless, I feel it might be wise to say something to her, and yet I lack the cleverness for words in person, or clairvoyance for their effect. What would you suggest?

I would very much welcome your advice on how best to approach her, as I can hardly follow her around to keep them apart myself!

Earnestly seeking your wisdom,
Millie

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Dahlia Honeyduke

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October 10, 1894

Dearest Millie,

How glad I am for your letter. It warms my heart to know that you trust and value my opinion on such a matter as such I shall keep you from suspense and get right to the heart of the matter.

While I know society seems to frown on such things, I do not think such friendships should be neglected simply for the sake of gender. Why your Aunt Laurel allowed us to be friends along side the Plunkett, Bixby, and Hatchitt boys as we grew up. She even took in Daffodil's school friend Jack, as you may recall, as part of the family. They were raised along side us as friends, brothers, and protectors. Although, I do harbor the romantic notion that Mama may have perhaps wished any of us to marry among their ranks, but I digress for I know you are much more eager to have an answer than listen to any pass impressions that have long since been forgone.

As long as your friend trusts this young man, for that is imperative, with her virtue and remains strong in her etiquette and manners, I do not think harm shall come from it. With, or without you as chaperon. Hogwarts has rules in place to keep any missteps from happening. That is why they insist on ladies being chaperoned around the school and why they have house matrons, prefects, and head girls and boys. If ever there was a place for such a friendship to bloom, I would trust it most readily there at Hogwarts. Such friendships are frowned upon once one is out among society. But allowing it to bloom now allows for a friendly face in later years and, hopefully, a protector in the years to come.

I know you are anxious for a response to your letter and as Mari didn't allow me a moment of peace to answer yesterday I shall end my letter here so you may not wait in trepidation.

All my love,
Dahlia

P.S. I hope you enjoy the sweets. If your friend has any preferences too let me know and I will send them in my next care package.

Attached is a bag of sweets from Honeyduke's.

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   Millie Potts

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Pretties by Bee <3