You will consider me most inattentive in not having answered your note of this morning sooner. The fact is I could not get a moment to do so. Moreover till I thought of going to the Stevenson's I intended to spend the evening with you, therefore forgive this neglect as well as my going to Barney's last night. I ought not to have done so but I promised. As Dr Sinclair leaves so soon it does not require so much haste but I feel that the sooner we get settled the better. On Thursday afternoon I will be better able to fix the time and shall see Mamma and Papa on the subject if possible on or before that time. Is it not as well that you should be preparing at any rate? I ordered my boots today and saw the improvements required about the house. I shall soon take a ride to the Hutt. Good night pet and believe me always to be your affectionate Donald McLean Tuesday evening 7 pm. How late to go to the Stevenson's. I am afraid you will be teazed about receiving this note but as Papa is out I cannot address it to him. The boy will give it to Kitty who may have the sense to hand it to you instead of Mamma or Mr H of whose house & china we take admirable care.