home from her head but don't you think it would be a very melancholy thing if her coming out here should cause a separation from her husband as they may yet, unless he is a most vicious abandoned character, be reconciled. It is 2 am, a late hour to be writing in a clergyman's house. I came over here to spend a few days before I leave for Rangitikei when the bell rings at 7 in the morning to rouse us up for prayers and breakfast which are over by 8. I always think of you conjecturing whether you are continuing your excellent resolution of early rising which I confess I find some difficulty in accomplishing unless I go early to bed. In a few days I expect to hear of you from Mr McDonell who recently dined with you at Dalmuir. I intended fully to have written to Mamma by this opportunity. Will you apologise and give her my kindest regards. Tell her that I feel very sorry for the