It had been two days and Basil still couldn’t get that blasted Witch Weekly nonsense out of his mind. He’d relieve the bin in his office already, just to be wholly rid of the things and even still - the notes haunted him. Who in his life would have thought it at all appropriate to post such an impertinent advertisement on his behalf? Deciding to do something about it once and for all, Basil set aside the student essay he was clearly not focused on and pulled out some parchment to scribble a few notes.

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Atticus –

I seem to have had an ad placed on my behalf in that wretched Witch Weekly periodical. Have you any knowledge of who might be responsible?

I'm very perturbed and, to be frank, if it was you: I can't say I'm surprised or expected anything more, but I am sorely disappointed by how low you would stoop to have me married off. Have you no qualms at all, or any regard for my happiness? Do you hate my being your brother so very much? I will not apologize for being the disappointment you evidently think me, but I will apologize for both of us having to live with it.

Basil

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Atticus Foxwood

  

Little Brother –

Contrary to what you might actually think (if you do in fact do that all; I am not so certain at this point!), my entire day does not revolve around thinking about you and how you are yet to be married. I do not hate you as a brother as frustrating as you can be.

I do not know why you think I would write to Witch Weekly; perhaps you have written the note yourself and wish to blame it on me now that you regret it!

Atticus

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Basil Foxwood

  

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Atticus –

I can recognize my mistake in sending such a harsh letter now that I have identified the true culprit. I don't count you entirely blameless since you live with her, but it appears mother is the one who put in the ad.

I doubt you'll disapprove too much as it actually returned some responses but I've thrown them out. One was barbaric and the other nonsensical. Besides, wouldn't it be rude to Miss Malfoy to entertain such advances anyway?

yours,
Basil

P.S. - Please disregard my previous sentiments, they were sent in a huff.

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Atticus Foxwood

  

Basil,

No matter how much you may wish it, silently or otherwise, I will not censor mother and check what letters she sends. Merlin could use the exercise these days anyway. I cannot blame her - perhaps if you should even the slightest bit more interest she wouldn't feel the need to go to such drastic measures.

I do hope you send a nice letter to Ms. Malfoy asking her to do something, and if they don't work out you have other options. I would be happy to set them up myself if you so choose.

Best,
Atticus

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Basil Foxwood

  

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Atticus –

No.

Thank you.

Basil

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Atticus Foxwood

  

Basil,

No to which? Asking Ms. Malfoy for some time to know her? Or no to knowing that you probably won't get your first choice of a wife?

Atticus

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Basil Foxwood

  

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It's a good thing I have no want for a wife then.

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Knowing he'd already sent more than enough hate mail today, Basil crumpled up the letter and tossed it in the bin behind the WW responses. He hated how the first face to cross his mind was Lissington's and he stood furiously. Then, handing Merlin the last corner of his breakfast, Basil shoved the window open further. The owl hooted and took off empty-handed.

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Atticus Foxwood