Dear E. P.

I have completed all appropriate education for a lady of my class and breeding, and, as you note need only practical experience and practice before I could say that I was mistress of the domestic arts.

I have only one brother, who is good, kind, modest and the pride of our family as a first born son should be, he shall make an excellent match for any young lady of breeding, but I do not wish to be a burden on my family for any longer than is absolutely necessary. Do not misunderstand me, I am no spinster, I am not yet 21, but just as my brother has begun his career, so too should I seek to begin mine as the dutiful and appropriate wife.

I hope my candor in this matter is not off putting, I have not the patience for the coquettish arts of most debutantes, I prefer plain spoken truths than artful deceptions.

Kindly
L.Z

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