Mother,

Sometimes, I cannot believe the things that he does, cannot fathom what he is possibly thinking. Though I do not wish for you to hear of it in the papers when it is announced officially, I must confess that I write for my well-being, my catharsis today. I trust you will forgive me the indulgence.

Father gathered all of us together Saturday (save, of course, for Lavinia) which was, admittedly rather suspicious; Victorius is not often 'summoned', and the exclusion of his wife swiftly raised questions. It was over dinner, together as a family, that he told us the news: he is to remarry. This was startling, but not shocking news; what is shocking is what I learned yesterday, upon investigation: my stepmother-to-be is two years my junior!

I know I am childish to react so vehemently when there are greater tribulations in this world, but I cannot understand why he would think this to be a good idea, why he would bring a child into our home as his bride when there are numerous aged debutantes, spinsters, and widows of unimpeachable blood purity that would have accomplished the same ends!

If I could have any wish on this earth granted, please know that it would be for your own heritage to magically rectify itself, and for all the unpleasantness to have never transpired.

I am to meet with her two days hence. If you would not begrudge it, I shall report back then.

With affection,