new the cause of your not coming and I did not mind. I did intend to go down on Monday to see you but as you were expected home on New Years Day by Alex's account I defaired going. He has been laid up since he came home on Friday last. It will be a disapointment to your sister and us all if you are not here tomorrow but if busness keeps you it cannot be helped and if you do not come up I will go down to see you on busness. Neil Walker came to me for some money saying he had to pay McKinnon who was going away and that he was afraid he might not see you at Napier so I gave him an order for £10 on Kinross. I am glad that the clip is sold but I think he might have gaven 1/2 more as wool is on the rise but still 1/4 is very good as it will be equal to 1/8 at home and all risk is done away with and the money at once realized. Poor Kate promised Barkley to be at the curch [crossed out] church meeting