I do not mean to keep it so you need not be cross. It is only in the meantime I require it. I hope everything will be in order when you come home. I have mended and put all your stockings in a box and I have got a woman in to help me to get your flannels made, some also for Papa and some other things I wish done before I am taken ill. I am afraid my Donald will not like the flannels since his pussy is not able to make them. I am very sorry to allow anyone else to do it but I have such a number of little things to do yet which takes up so much time that I fear I shall not be able to do them and Papa is always scolding me for sewing so much. You ask me if I would like a new sideboard made for the parlour. I do not think I would care for one as I intend to put your desk there and there will be no room for one besides