2110-1-6-8

Altarstone Stobo N.B.

4 Brick Court Temple.

Sept: 27: 1900.

Dear Lady Mary

I have asked my publishers to send you a copy of my new novel. It is my first attempt at a modern story, and I am afraid is pretty much of a failure. Some of it I like, and I think the general intention is good, but I am afraid that most of it is too ambitious. It is hideously got up, which is the natural consequence of

putting your trust in Sunday-school publishers.

I hope that you are all well at Barford, and that your mother is quite strong again. Is your husband's play finished yet? I shall have to conquer my natural antipathy to Mrs. Pat. & go to the first night.

I have now had a month's holiday, chiefly paying shooting visits – in Yorkshire, the Borders, & the West Highlands. I had some delightful

days yachting among the Inner Hebrides. Now I am at home, working, and next week I get back to town.

With kindest regards

Yours very sincerely

John Buchan