Frances heavily influenced Fanny’s love for writing and set a very strong example for her. Fanny’s parents would constantly write letters to each other throughout their relationship, and Frances would often offer advice and opinions on Seward’s political choices. Although Seward sometimes did not heed this advice, he respected the intelligence and boldness his wife expressed through writing. It makes sense that Fanny would use this form of expression after the example of her mother.

“Commenced today a book of extracts filled nine pages--Mother has one in which she has written ever since she was seventeen--” Feb 18, 1861