My dear father

I received your letter and the "Globe" yesterday. I was glad to learn that you were all well, but felt somewhat chagrined to think you were likely to undertake that teething job without me: however wilful make to it. I am undecided as to how I shall reach Hamilton I did intend to take Steamer at Portland for New York but I see by the Globe that a daily line of Steamers runs from Toronto to Montreal. If they do, I suppose they must also return, and I would much like to travel through the length of Canada by Steamer, and will lose if on inquiry you ascertain that I shall be able to Lake boat at Montreal and came through direct to Toronto. Will you ascertain this for me and let me know at once.

When I am once in Canada I want to become a member of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario and become a Registered Physician as my views concerning the Pacific Coast are of a very Catholic kind, and if the Canadian Pacific Railroad is likely to be soon finished, why, I shall put myself down at the Pacific terminal and domesticate myself. Lares, Penates et hoc id genus omne. I should much like to be in Canada when the College of Surgeons holds its annual meeting, but I suppose that is over months ago.

Mr. John says it is ridiculous that I am to go to Canada alone how much company he would be for me. But I have laid in provisions and fuel enough for a three year's siege, and must [?].

It seems to me that the awkward are always unfortunate, and what could have induced Alfred's girl to burn herself almost to death I cannot imagine I am sorry I did not answer Alfred's letter to me a few weeks ago, but he did ride so high a horse, and assume so much injured innocence, that I really felt myself a guilty being and like many another under similar circumstances, kept a discreet silence: but will make all the haste I can to see you and him.

Julia writes with much love to all and I remain,

Your Affectionate Son

John