Oh I know that I can trust and count on you for anything. You mean the whole world to me. But you really needn’t worry! Truth is, I feel quite relieved now that I’ve recognized what I can do about my situation as a reluctant debutante. Of course I’ll take all the help I can get from you and Suki…

But on the topic of your cousins… I don’t want to do that to the Professor – start rumors like that. Part of this is because I wish to conserve my mentorship with him, which would be difficult to manage if the rumors of courtship turn to something more inappropriate – once it’s clear that we aren’t ever moving past that stage. Then there’s the other part of the equation, I’d like him to stay a friend. I can’t imagine he’d go for this sort of scheme on purpose, do you? I would hate to trick him into such a thing.

As for Mister Alderton, Tillie’s older brother?! Merlin I don’t think I could ever have the  gumption to pursue anything with him in that way though he is terrifically handsome, he's just too handsome. He’s very sweet. But can you even imagine how much your aunt would frown over my unfinished manners? And wouldn't Tillie feel quite strange about it anyhow? Besides, Anthony seems like the type that would prefer a lady who knows how to throw a good party. A proper socialite. I wouldn’t know where to even begin. No, fussing with firstborns is far too much pressure…

...Do you have any long-lost cousins perhaps? (I promise, I am not trying to be difficult on purpose. There are just many practicalities one must consider before embarking on a scheme like this.)

I suppose that leaves me with Mister Dempsey… But I daresay Poppy, you sound quite enamored with him yourself! Isn’t he your type? Again I stress don’t worry about me… Why not see where the path leads with him first?

I know how you feel about this… marriage being a business decision more than one of the heart. Though from what I’ve seen of the season so far, you have no trouble keeping your dance card full. I hope you’re at least considering any of the gentlemen who happen to make your heart flutter? Even if they don’t look perfect on paper. Or has one caught your eye already?

Never apologize darling. I will see you at the Wisteria ball if not much sooner, I hope! Stories of conquest are much better exchanged in person.

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