I appreciate the return of the book, especially in such pristine condition. I had found it in Mama's study and thought Anthony might make some use of it. It appears he didn't read it, but we will work on his skills to not offend family before tea, too.

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I found this book in Mama's study, and over the last few days it's been making the rounds like some unfortunate family curse. I sent it to Anthony in jest, but you know him, he wasn't amused. He probably treated it with the reverence of a used napkin. He sent it to Basil, who sent it to back to me. He, on the other hand, found it “not entirely void of practicality".

I trust you’ll do better than either. Please, read a chapter, roll your eyes, and at least pretend to learn something. We can gang up on Anthony when we see him next to let him know he missed out on reading such an excellent book.

Page 47 made me think of you. I think you'll see why.

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Enclosed is a copy of The Art of Amiable Conversation, or, How Not to Offend Every Person You Encounter Before Tea. In addition to Reg’s bookmark and letters written by Reg and Anthony (which have been left tucked into the first pages for the record), Anthony’s scribbled doodle in a random margin on page 107 of what looks like the Hogwarts crest, then a bird with a hat, Basil's signature to the flyleaf, Reg has underlined a passage about a loving friend who is the example of what one should strive for, located on page 47, with a note that reads, This is you, Lucy.

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   Basil Foxwood