13 Gt Stuart St
Dec^r 3^d

My dear Papa

We have just had a visit from Bertha and her husband – they were passing through Edinbro’ today on their way to Stirling where they were going to pay a visit to some of M^r Fletcher’s relations, and she stayed with us about an hour & half waiting for the 1 oclock train and had luncheon – We thought her looking very well & she gave an improved account of Emily who has not been strong lately – She begged we would thank you for your pretty wedding present which she said had arrived at a time when she was so busy that she was ashamed to say she had failed to acknowledge it & hopes you will excuse her –

They talk of going down to Margam after Christmas, after that their plans seem rather uncertain.

Monie thanks you for your letter – We think the Miss Craigs have probably already seen the Strelitzia here as Wilkins has sent specimens more than once – we can ask them when we see them – they are nowing now staying in Edinburgh but we have not met as they called when we were out. –

Today is stormy but much milder than yesterday & much lighter, – for we had such a thick fog yesterday afternoon that we had to light the gas at ½ past three oclock – was not that too bad? –

I was sorry to hear such a poor account of Thereza Nicholl It is sad for them all – Are you going to Cotehele too? –

Good bye dear Papa

Y^r affec^te daughter
Ela

Mama says she understood you ordered the Athenæum to come here – it has not done so –

The Game you sent arrived quite safely and is very good.