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Dabton
Thornhill
Jan 12th/69
My dear Papa,
I was very glad to hear that you have had a satisfactory journey to London notwithstanding the delay at Carlisle and the early start next morning – I will not forget to send the rubus plants when I hear that you have arrived at Lacock, but I suppose you will not be going for some days yet – We planted your rubus here yesterday in two patches to give it two different chances & I hope it will do well. – The snowdrops are now open everywhere, & quite make a show on the grass, it is really wonderful for this time of year. The weather has not been so bright since you went away, but not cold – close & foggy – the Duke of Buccleuch & a party of gentlemen came to Drumlanrig on Saturday They went out shooting both yesterday & today, & had very good sport, I believe – John was with them – You have been very much missed by all the children since you went away, but little Mary could not be convinced that you would not be discovered somewhere, so she went peering into all the rooms, looking for you! Jack has been plagued with his teeth since you left – I found out the evening before last that he had two second teeth coming in behind the others, so the first teeth had to be pulled out that they may get into their places – I hope it will not be of permanent consequence, but very likely we shall have to take him to Edinburgh soon to have them looked at by a dentist; as it is better to take those sort of things in time – The Political aspect of matters is not encouraging – I believe Major Walker either has withdrawn, or is about to withdraw from the petition, as he cannot sustain it with sufficient proof – so I fear that the delightful Sir Sidney will be returned without opposition Jack is very angry at my calling him delightful!
With much love from all, big & little, I am
your most affec.
Tilly