[ Oh. Ohh. Well that's a better accusation than fending off stupid rumors. Amusement softens the confusion. ]

I am certain everything will go well. The Gala was enough of a spectacle that it would be overkill to ruin the Swear In. I'll confess, I am more of a Northerner at heart and do not enjoy the heat of summer. Nor is my body suited for such a state of public undress. But that is not the reason I will not be in attendance.

[ A pause, and then appreciative: ]

Loathe as I would be to miss you turning someone into a fruit bearing tree. And you do look exquisite. Naturally, you must know that.