As to your tastes not being identical, that doesn't really matter. Make a few sacrifices of those things you don't care about; bicycling, for instance, and skirt-dancing, and then, in return for such self-denial, he'll probably waive his objections to afternoons, private views, or even--in moderation--clever young men. On some subjects, I know, sympathy seems impossible; for instance, ARTHUR likes music, but detests concerts: while you, on the other hand, while not caring for music are particularly fond of concerts. A little mutual indulgence on both sides will soon put matters straight. After a slight dispute never hold out an _instant_ after he shows repentance. Also, _never avoid showing jealousy when you see he expects it_. This is a valuable "tip." False pride on this subject is a fruitful source of discord. Do not disagree with his general principles. On the contrary, second them; and give him convincing reasons for his own opinions. When it comes to a particular application of them, that you really object to you are sure to know how to act. Believe everything he says, and never correct him about details, especially not if you know you are right. I don't think I need advise you not to bring out authorities to show he is wrong in the etymology of a word or any other subject of discussion, for _that_ is absolutely suicidal, and you would be beyond the pale of reason if you dreamt of such a thing. Since your cousin FREDDY has been staying with you, I can understand you find it rather awkward. I know FREDDY; with his love of practical jokes (for which you, too, I am certain, have a secret _penchant_), and his determined chatter about his rowing, his riding, and why he didn't back the winner, and how it is he missed the Diamond Sculls, and so on, _ad lib._ I can quite fancy he doesn't get on with ARTHUR, whom he must despise for not having put a hair-brush in his bed the very first evening. You must have had a difficult day that Sunday that young DE VERNEY and his sister came down. DE VERNEY, rosy-cheeked and babyish-looking, but about whom a morbid interest centres, because he collects jewels, and was said at one time to take morphia; and Miss DE VERNEY, who "writes," and is utterly amazed and contemptuous when she finds someone who has never heard of her. If it were not for your mother, who forgets people's characteristics, and explains them to each other a little wrong--which often saves the situation--the day would have ended in utter want of harmony. DE VERNEY left, pitying you, and his sister feeling sorry for ARTHUR. I am glad you removed--though only just in time--an absurd booby-trap FREDDY had placed in ARTHUR'S room, because ARTHUR had said he "romped"; and when you and your future husband were alone, he said he hoped your companions in the future would be of a very different calibre to your present friends.