My Dear Cousin,
I am very sorry it was not in my
power to visit Huntly this vacation, not having
been to Birse for two years I could not get my
visit over in lefs than two weeks and then I
had to spend 8 or ten days in the Mearns
After which I found it necefsary to return to the
task we have gotten a wife since I saw
you Mifs Mary Stuart who has been for
many years a particularly good friend of mine
I find her society most agreeable. I enclose you
a letter and List of slaves I had from Mr Cobhan
a few weeks ago. I am afraid Mr. Gray is offended
at so many people employed to look after him
I am fully of Mr. Cobhans opinion - that the only
way is to endeavour to coax Mr. Gray It would be
in vain to attempt forcing things at such a distance
My Aunt should ask Mr. Reid to write him a
polite letter to the effect as Cobhan advises
Matters are long in being brot. to a conclusion in
that country even when people themselves are
on the spot. I think there may be some residue
I also got a letter from Hiberts & Co. which
I also send you for my Aunt. I hope she is
getting much better. I do not see that I can
do more in the businefs at present.
My mother was quite well when I saw her -
when I say quite well I take into account
her ordinary head aches of which she will
never get rid. When in the Mearns I met
with Mr. Thomson of Fetterefso a brother of
Mrs. Cooper. He was most kind claimed
me for a cousin and made me promise to
visit him at Fetterefso. How he can be a
cousin of mine I know not, but I was much
pleased with the Gentleman and with his
Sermon at Laurencekirk when moderating
a call for a Minister there. I hope Mrs. Cooper
is getting better. What tremendous floods there
have been your good town I dare say
has suffered much, at least its vicinity. I never
dreamt of such a flood till people were talking
next day of the devastations thereof. My mothers yard
has been swept by it and a (torrent?) thrown
up which was last there 30 years ago by a
similar speat. I should have liked much
to see the Rivers. I am glad to hear you
got back home from (Piteathuly?) you pro
mised to write but you did not do it
you might send us an account of your
trip. The last few days I was in (the?)
country I was grievously afflicted with toothache.
I hope your father continues well my
best compliments to him & love to Aunty
And every good wish for your own health
And happinefs I Remain Dear Cousin
Your Affectionate HS
11 Augt 29