Flora,

Cats are not only more affectionate than owls, but they're just as practical. They can catch rats, even if they're pets of the other students. My father's cat once caught a giant toad and dropped it in the living room. That's how Alphonse got his toad. Father was going to let Horatio eat the awful thing, but Alphonse stepped in. Now the toad is everywhere. I once found him sitting in my dresser drawer with my underthings.

And no worries, my dear Flora, if Mother were to find the book you sent me, I would blame it on Mabell. She's good for things like that. She almost always takes the blame for me. Not that I do things wrong, mind you, but occasionally I get a little wild. Nothing like some other girls our age though. Have you heard about what Agnes did before the fog? She got caught kissing a girl. Her mother was so flustered!

Yours,