That Awful Letter: A Comedy for Girls

by Edna I. MacKenzie

"That Awful Letter: A Comedy for Girls" by Edna I. MacKenzie is a comedic play written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the themes of snobbery and social class, specifically exploring the interactions between a city girl, Margaret, and her rural cousin, Elizabeth, who is depicted as an unsophisticated country girl. The play captures the humor that arises from misunderstandings and character contrasts, making it a lighthearted exploration of societal pretensions and prejudices. The plot unfolds as Margaret is compelled by her father to invite her country cousin Elizabeth to visit her in the city. However, Margaret, concerned about Elizabeth's lack of sophistication potentially harming her social status, concocts a letter laden with snobbery to deter her. Unbeknownst to Margaret, Elizabeth sees through the rudeness of the letter and decides to accept the invitation with a plan to play the part of the awkward cousin. As Elizabeth arrives, the comedic situations escalate due to her unexpected confidence and charm, ultimately revealing that she is not as uncultured as Margaret assumed. The play culminates in moments of self-reflection for Margaret, who learns lessons about humility, friendship, and the value of authenticity over social status.