April 29th, 1892

Dearest Poppy,

Do you ever wish we could just participate in the Hogwarts Coming Out ball and just be done with it? What I wouldn't give to line up with all of the other seventh years and be a part of the group instead of singled out. It would be so nice just to be another face in the crowd. Have you any idea if they're going to make us do this individually or together? I would hate to ruin your day, but honestly I cannot imagine doing it all by myself. The focus all on me? I cannot even wrap my brain around it.

How are NEWTs going? I have no doubts you'll go well, but I know the stress can be overwhelming. Thinking of you!

Yours,
Tillie

Poppy Dashwood

  

April 29, 1892

Darling Tillie!

Mama would sooner die than have me come-out with the Hogwarts class... I can't say I particularly want to be one of the lot, either. I know how desperately you must be willing it finished, but think how lovely you will look when the day finally does arrive. (And how quickly it will all be over and done, never again to linger on your horizons like a pending torture.)

I'm not ashamed to admit to you, dear Tillie, that I have struggled with the prospect of the debut altogether. But now that it is on the horizon, I have been trying to let the excitement of a beautiful gown, a lovely ball, and some fun dancing surrounded by friends to overshadow the doubt and hesitance I have for being put to auction. I don't so very much disagree with your sentiment that it will be a heavy burden to bear being the centre of attention, but with a glass of champagne and some flirtation I do rather think it could be enjoyable!

Mama has started putting together invitations for June, but I haven't heard anything of your debuting the same eve. Perhaps your date will follow shortly after and I can be there with you, helping you through with what grace I can muster! I have every faith you will be a charming, spectacular debutante Tillie. You have the Alderton wit, just as do I and as does your Basil. (For better or worse, he holds his own in society as a gentleman and you are so very much more charming.)

Exams have been stressful indeed, however I think I am prepared for all but DADA. I have a deeply troubling story to share with you upon the subject when we next meet, but otherwise I expect the rest to pass with ease!

When do you next return to Hogsmeade? I do so miss you! There is much I wish to share but already this letter has gone on too long. I've enclosed a small satchel of your favorite tea as a comfort, and some chocolate frogs to throw at whomever next vexes you.

Please write back soon, darling Tillie!

yours,
Poppy

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[Enclosed find three boxes of Chocolate Frogs and a satchel of green tea leaves and fresh dried orange rinds, tied with a pastel green ribbon and a tiny white carnation.]

Mathilda Alderton

  

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© Fox

May 1st, 1892

Dearest Poppy,

I think you greatly overestimate my ability to fake the smile and manners when I have zero interest in even trying. Have no worries, I will let Mama know I would prefer a small solitary affair, preferably after yours, so I can coast in the shadow of your success. You should very much enjoy your day and the amusement it provides you. However, I doubt even champagne could make me charming and the affair something I would enjoy. I wonder if could get Basil to sneak me something stronger... Regardless you will have the debut of your dreams and hopefully mine will not be a nightmare to haunt me for the rest of my days.

Speaking of Basil, he has agreed to spring me in the upcoming weeks for an afternoon of freedom. I will see if we can coordinate schedules!

I am so very intrigued by your DADA incident, I do hope you are alright! I thoroughly enjoyed the class, so practical and useful! I hear there is a new professor this year? I keep meaning to ask Basil, but entirely forget as we get hung up on other conversations.

Thank you so much for the treats, I wish I could reciprocate, but I have not been out on the town in a fair while and have nothing of import to be able to send! I will rectify that as soon as humanly possible.

Yours,
Tillie

Poppy Dashwood

  

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May 2, 1892

Darling Tillie,

Nonsense! You have every grace and elegance about you as I! Yours will be just as lovely, and I cannot wait to see it!

How lovely it would be to see you though! I'm glad Basil has decided to spend some time away too... I'm sure he quite needs it. I shall tell you all about my debacle if and when we see one another! It really isn't the sort of thing I'd like to share over a letter.

Professor Lissington is the new professor, I believe his first name is Ambrose- Augustus? He's a very nice fellow, from Ireland. When he speaks he has an adorable little lilt that the other girls find so fascinating. I dare say he almost displaced your Basil as the most eligible, handsome bachelor this year!

Does the Pendergast School have any eligible bachelors for you to practice your arts of conversation upon? What is it like, I've always wondered!

Spare not a concern for the treats; I am happy to spoil you.

always,
Poppy

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Mathilda Alderton

  

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© Fox