My dearest boy,

I was sorry we were so packed that I could not manage to get out to have a word with you. You can imagine Mrs. Begue kept me well entertained all the way; the lady with her was equally chatty, indeed they entertained all near them; and this lady seemed to be posted in all the Society gossip of the day, which made it specially interesting. Then we had a couple on board who were drunk, a very tough pair, which afforded further diversion. Mr. MacKay had intended driving me down, but at the last minute a message came from Gordon, to go for him, not saying for what, so Maggie went with him. Did you hear that "Petee" Taylor had gone to Yale? Douglas was here one day and told me. Mr. Gregory had advised him to go.

The weather has changed, it rained last night and to-day it is very dark and gloomy. So I was glad to have got to Toronto and back. Now we are all busy preparing for Mission Band Sale on Tuesday, there are also two "Teas" to-morrow and reception in the evening for farewell to Mr. Cunningham; he will be presented with $100, very good I think for our people, for there is no end of calls, and there is a deficit announced last Sabbath of $650. One "Tea" to-morrow is at Mrs. Logie's to meet Miss Fisher. Yesterday & to-day we have been trotting about making calls, it is such fine weather for walking.

I am afraid, I cannot spin out this letter any further. There does not seem a thing for one to say. You must not keep off your flannels or your over-coat too long, for I am afraid you will catch cold coming out of warm moist rooms into the cold, so take care of yourself. Mr. MacKay said he would always be glad to have you boys come in and take tea, specially on Sunday evenings. Adieu, with best love.

Your loving mother

M.B. McQuesten