My dear sister,

[Pleasantries re: children etc.]

Though deeply fond of my nephews, however, it is on a personal matter that I write to you today. It has, for a number of reasons far too tedious with which to trouble you, become clear to me that this, 1891, is the year in which I must marry. I know it is a duty that I have neglected for the better part of a decade, focusing my attentions instead upon work, upon the happiness of yourself and our brothers, but it was "high time" I see the matter dealt with quite some time ago.

Because I have been so negligent, however, I must confess—embarrassing though it is—that I need assistance in knowing the 'who's who' of society at the moment. I do not, of course, have any intention of setting my sights upon the present incomparable, but I do not believe myself equipped to navigate the seas of the season, nor the shallow waters that proceed them, without assistance. Might I count on you to help your dear old brother?