Thursday, 12 January, 1871
My Dear Miss Chigwidgeon...
When my own wedding day was approaching, I realised that there was much I did not know about being a wife. I determined to learn from the experiences of those around me. Yet, I knew that a general inquiry might yield far more "helpful" advice than I could bear.
Here was my solution: I asked each married (or previously married) woman of my acquaintance to tell me the three most important things a newly married woman should know. This kept the advice much more concise than it might have otherwise been.
Some of the words of wisdom I received were sentimental, some embarrassing, some frightening, some very practical. On the whole, I found the research well worth the time I spent.
I thought I could offer you a few words of what I have learned in my as yet brief married life, for you to use or discard as you see fit.
Three things a newly-married woman should know:
1) If your husband is disposed to wait upon you hand and foot, enjoy it, but don't take it for granted.
2) Never underestimate the power of a good kiss.
3) Pay attention to your calendar.
Whether you find these words of use or no, I offer them with my most heartfelt good wishes for the joy and prosperity of your marriage. May you be ever as happy in your marriage as I have been in mine.
Your Friend,
Mrs Ruth Frazer
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