My dear Calvin,

In last night's mail we were greatly surprised to notice your name although it was 'A' we thought it was a mistake for 'C'. The family was quite excited and elated over your success. Edna spoke of writing a letter of congratulation, but was too lazy. I was glad because I thought you must be feeling pretty well. Do not take time to write me a long letter, but write me a pencil note, with your clothes, I want to know if you are rid of those breathless attacks yet and how you really are. Mary seems to have thoroughly enjoyed her visit to Mrs. M., but has decided never to trouble to go to another Conversat [sic], but between her many Albaur [sic] &c., &c., she had a very pleasant time. We are busy preparing for Miss Sinclair, our missionary home from Indore, she speaks this evening and two or three are coming in to tea to meet her.

Have you been to see Dr. Caven² since? When you do, you might ask him if there was anything you could take for those turns you have, or perhaps what he has given you will help that too. You will need to ask him for his account including Mary's before you come home and I can send down the money. Do you know that Arthur Sullivan can get you your mixture for half the price. I will send down your prescription in case you need it.

You lent me a dollar, shall I send you the dollar in case you need it, before the parcel reaches you? The children were at the Farce at Collegiate last night. They will write you. With much love.

Your loving mother

[M.B. McQuesten]

¹ Dated by use of the Perpetual Calendar for 1896 in which March 6 is a Friday www.dothan.k12.al.us/encyclopedia/perpetual20calendar/. Also dated by comparison with context of letter from Hilda to Calvin which mentions Miss Sinclair and the Farce, (W-MCP1-3a.004) dated March 7, 1896. Hilda's letter also contains a note from mother to Calvin: "Dear Cally, Am sending down the children's Serges to be cleaned at Smith's, am going to ask Jim just to leave the parcel but if he does not you will have to take it. I will send a note with it giving all directions and will have it sent to you to bring home."

² Dr. William P. Caven saw Calvin while he was in Toronto (see W5105n). A relative of William's, Dr. John Caven was a friend of Calvin's father Isaac in college and cared for Calvin's sister Ruby when she was ill with tuberculosis. For Ruby's illness, see W6135.