Dearest Tom,

As to the coal, other years they did not wish to put it in till after the ice-season. I hope Mr. C. arranged for it as usual. We have always got 12 or 13 tons. No. 12 was the largest amount and seven for kitchen, nut coal and they have to be directed as to carrying in furnace and sending a chute for the kitchen. It is "grate" coal for furnace. When I begin to think, I wonder if it is egg, but inquire which is smallest. For I have always to charge them not to send a large coal, it does not do well. So when you are telephoning, phone the office and the yards, as one year the first two sent was too large to use, and even tho' it may be called "grate" some is larger than others.

I hope Mrs. Boyd will send in her rent soon. The Regan St. as I said, belongs to office. I only want the Boyd sent, and the King St. will be sufficient for other things, when deposited.

The war trouble is so terrible, it makes me quite ill. And we are powerless to do any thing. One cannot see why these things are permitted.

It doesn't seem possible that Mr. Chisholm should have to go. It is to be hoped something will have happened to stop it, before they reach the front. I am thankful you did not belong to the regiment. I would not live through it. With fondest love.

Your mother

M.B. McQuesten