10th January 1892

Dear Cousin Flora,

How are you? I hope this letter finds you well.

My governess says that, as I am leaving for Hogwarts in September, I should work on my correspondence and my penmanship as both will help me to adjust better once I am away at school. Part of me thinks that if I hadn't had a governess and had already gone to school in Irvingly like some of the neighbours, it would not be so donti daunting a thing, but I expect Grandmama or Grandfather might have put a bee in Mama's bonnet where schooling is concerned.

I did not think you would mind my choosing you to practice on, but I know your writing is much more detailed and neat than Rex's. Besides, he is a boy, and won't be able to answer all my questions about Hogwarts in the same way.

Also, your mama sends her love; she invited us for tea yesterday. I think she misses you already, but she would never say as much to me as I am only a child.

Yours most sincerely,
Louisa

  

11 January, 1892

My dear cousin Louisa,

I'm glad to hear that your governess is emphasizing the importance of correspondence and good penmanship. At Hogwarts it quickly becomes clear what an impediment it be without the latter especially; I do not know how many times I have asked to borrow Si Mr. Black's notes to ensure mine were sufficient, only to realize I can hardly read his writing! I admit I do not write to many people outside the family, but I have been assured by the etiquette instructor that it is a vital skill once a girl comes of age.

I would be glad to answer whatever questions you have. I do like to think I have gained a solid knowledge of the castle and its contents over the last four years.

If you mention to Mama you've written to me, please let her know I miss her. Do not feel the need to mention that you wrote to me first.

Always yours,
Flora

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14th January 1892

Dear Cousin Flora,

[generic pleasantries and updates on the banalities of Hogsmeade]

What is it like, to have an etiquette instructor instead of a governess? Is it terribly strange to share one person with a hundred other classmates? How does he/she have the time to ensure that each student to leave Hogwarts has the skills they need to not be an embarrassment as an adult?

Yours most sincerely,
Louisa

  

16 January, 1892

My dear cousin Louisa,

[pleasantries, etc.]

I much prefer an etiquette instructor to a governess, in part because they are not so picky with us girls who were fortunate enough to have as strict of a governess as I did growing up. Madam [—] has high standards for all her pupils, and she does hold us to a higher standards than the girls whose childhood instruction was less involved, but I do like her. She often plans group activities for us that mimic situations we'll find ourselves in one day. Just the other day we were graded on our ability to host guests in a parlor. It's lessons like those I enjoy the most. I don't know how she does it. I assume it's a mixture of grades and observations.

But really, Louisa, is that what you're most curious about? I promise there's far more interesting things at Hogwarts than Etiquette class.

Always yours,
Flora

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