the misfortune that has attended her cousin. When am I to be favoured with a knowledge of the books with which you amuse yourself? I wish I had the opportunity to read that you have as you seem from the severity of the weather which is rather broken here also at present to confine yourself pretty much to the house. Really puss I must ask you to forgive a short letter tonight as I have only finished some despatches and a long letter to Dr M'Leod of Glasgow, portions of which he may probably publish when he receives it. I feel the want of a clerk very much. Good night or rather morning and believe me to always to remain My dear Douglas Yours affectionately Donald McLean