2110-3-2-25

76, PORTLAND PLACE, W.

Sept: 12: 17

My dearest wee Mother

This is a beautiful clear morning. We had heavy rain last night. I dined at the Travellers on my way home from the office with Reginald Farrer [ST: writer & famous botanist]. To day I have to go to the official luncheon at the

House of Commons to the American McCormick. Susie comes up this morning.

I seem to have no news to-day. Lord knows what is happening in Russia! I am completely hung up, for I have a lot of people & equipment waiting to

start, but I don't dare to let anything move at present. Poor Hugh Walpole is in a great muddle in consequence.

I am very pleased at having Carson as my chief. When a;; is said "principles is principles" & I have no natural affinity with the P.M. or any Radicals. I love

Carson's brogue. He always begins, "They is tellin' me" -

I hope to get into my new rooms to-day. They should have been ready 4 months ago!

I do hope you are all pretty well. I am glad my Photographic Exhibition is going to Peebles.

Much love

[illegible]

John