2110-3-5-14

76, PORTLAND PLACE, W.1.

Feb: 14: 19

My dearest wee Mother

All your parcels arrived safely. Very many thanks. you kind wee body. This decaying family is now in the following position. Billy & Mr John are quite well, & Billy is in great spirits. Alastair has a temp & a cold & is a funny red-eyed red-nosed whiskyfied little man, but he is very merry & doesn't seem to mind it, Alice's temp. last night was 105 & this morning 104, but she had a good night, & the doctor is quite pleased with her. She is simply felled & just sleeps on & on.

Susie & I are easier, our sore throats & stomachic gripes are abating. We had Bob Brand [ST: later Lord Brand] & his wife (who are probably going to buy this house) coming to dine to-night, but have had to put them off.

Tell Walter that the MS. of Greenmantle is being bound in Edinburgh & will be sent on to him.

Miss [Bennan?], the governess, has flu', & the class is in difficulties. It is a little less cold, but still pretty bitter.

How are you, my wee body? I am always thinking about you.

Much love to all

[illegible]

John

Billy was woken up last night, & remarked, "If this goes on, the word I shall say is 'Beast'."