The Letter Game - Random Correspondence, Non-MWPP, Non-Voldypants et al Options

[ronsmyman]

30 June 1976
Keswick

Dearest Alice,

We arrived earlier today, and after unpacking and a light supper I was given leave to roam about the place. It’s quite nice. When my parents told me we would be taking some sort of nature retreat, I was concerned that we would be stuck in a completely uncivilized place swarming with every nasty creature imaginable, but so far the only creature I’ve seen is a stag, he seems to be following me, I’ve seen him no less than three times. He has the most beautiful rack of horns that I ever saw. Maybe not as large as some others but they seem to shine like hair that is constantly brushed.

Tomorrow, my parents have decided that we are all going hiking. Ick. Walking about for hours staring at trees that are all the same, not exactly my idea of fun. Petunia seems to be enjoying herself though. She has this new beau named Vernon, that she is constantly writing to. I think she’s written him twelve letters already and he was the one who saw us off at the station this morning. I think Petunia and James would be perfect for each other they are both obsessive to a scary point.

Speaking of James, he has been writing me all summer. I know it’s only been five days, but still, he’s written me daily if not more often. Sometimes his letters are insufferable! His last one though didn’t reek of sarcasm and pomposity though. But I still know it’s there.

So, how are things with Frank? Has he finally gotten up the courage to meet you parents? Keep me informed, you know James scares away any hopes of my having a boyfriend while I’m at Hogwarts so I have to live vicariously through you. I hope you are spending your hols in a relaxing manner. We have to get together some time after I return to the city. Maybe I can talk my parents into letting us go spend a weekend in Bath, I’ve never summered there before and I always thought it would be fun.

Love,

[pinkpanther]

5 July
Bath


Lily,

First of all, thank you for gathering plants for me, I can't wait to see them. The flower you tried to pick is called sassafrasaphonia. You need't worry about your arm falling off, that would be absurd. Of course, if left untreated, it has been known to turn the victim a lovely shade of blue. Anyway, you'll have to find it again (I hope you didn't kill it, as they're extremely rare) and VERY CAREFULLY pull off three or four of the richest-colored petals. Crush these and mix with a little tea tree oil. Then just spread it on the rash and cover it with a bandage. It should heal in about 24 hours. If not, I suggest picking up some blue shoes to match your skin (I'm KIDDING!).

Now, on to more important matters, ARE YOU DAFT?!?! What on earth would possess you to invite Sirius Black to join you in the middle of nowhere? I mean, he's not a total wretch, but he's James' best friend. Of course he'd bring James! And even if he didn't, James would find out, hate Sirius, and devote ALL of his abundant free time to stalking you! Unless, of course, that's what you want. Please don't hate me for that, but, honestly, you have talked of little else since the holidays began. I wonder if, deep down, he might have a chance? Well, if not, it is entirely possible that a bit of potions class has penetrated his thick skull and he's managed to brew a love potion.

Now, the best news of all! You remember how I told you my Great Aunt Alice came for tea? Well, apparently, she was so impressed with my herbology marks last term that she has decided to take me along as her companion when she goes to Italy! AND we'll be spending a couple of days in Marseille, which means that I can (hopefully) hunt Frank down for a few hours at least! Isn't that absolutely spiffing? I got an owl from him yesterday and he said they'd be in Marseille for another week and a half, which is perfect, as Great Aunt Alice and I are leaving tomorrow evening. I'm in heaven! This couldn't be better! Well, perhaps it could if I were travelling with you, instead of a smelly old lady. But it's still better than sitting at home while everyone else is having a ball elsewhere. Oh, I nearly forgot. Don't let it slip that I'm travelling because I'm going to surprise Frank and I don't want word to get to him before I do!

Well, I must be off! I'm positively swamped with things to do before tomorrow! Oh, before I forget, I will try to find a picture of Milton with Nessie for you to show your Mum and Dad, though I know for a fact that we don't have any Muggle ones. Will a wizard photo upset them? If not, let me know. I'm sure we have extras because Milton was so hung up on that forever, pompous little bugger. OK, I really must dash!
Ta,
Alice