Dear Miss Scrimgeour,

I would not presume to guess what Mrs Macnair might do but, for what it’s worth, I don’t see how any of this could reflect badly upon you or your side of the family. Your cousin’s actions are not your fault, nor should you allow others to let you feel that they are.

That being said perhaps you could write to Mrs Macnair and humbly - humbly Miss Scrimgeour! – explain to her that you have no contact with your cousin? I don’t presume to understand betrothals very well but I assume that your father and Mrs Macnair will make the decision so this may be your only chance to argue your case.

Humbly though.

Sincerely,