[Written at top] Cannot shop much, everything so dear.

My dear Mary and Calvin,

Have to write in pencil as pen soon runs out. Went driving all day yesterday thro' London, across Tower Bridge, past Lambeth Palace, around Covent Market, only in time to see cleaning up, but witnessed great happ[?] Billingsgate, Westminster Cathedral a huge ugly building with no decorations a great contrast to Brampton Oratory, built by Cardinal in Italian Renaissance gorgeous decorations, one altar from Duchess of Norfolk. First of all visited Lincoln's Inn and Temple Church in the latter are tombs of Knight Templars full sized bronze with the legs crossed of those killed in the Crusades, magnificent carved black oak, shining. Splendid Library overlooking their own lawns and the embankment. (Day before yesterday hail & rain storm for short time). Wound up at the Zoo yesterday. Wheeled round in chair saw the most gorgeous parrots, some sitting on stands (at the entrance) at intervals along a flower border filled with small golden elder and scarlet geraniums, these brilliant creatures very large, one the richest blue, all making a terrible racket. Then we saw a house full . The bears on Mappin Terrace and mountain goats, quite marvellous. Sea Lions &c. and last the Aquarium-most beautiful. In all the places we get tea. Today is garden party at Buckingham Palace-"if weather permit"- It has been raining & shining, so we are quite anxious now at 3:20.

8 P.M. Cleared up finely, saw thro' the Palace, Beautiful paintings &c. and magnificent trees in Park, shook hands with King and Queen and had Tea. Expect to leave on Sat. for Southsea but send letters here. With much love.

M. B. McQuesten