My dearest Calvin,

I am so sorry to think you will not receive your letter to-day. Yesterday I sat down to write it, in the midst of great hubbub but was interrupted and never got another chance. We were house cleaning; to hurry matters had two women, and gave Sitting room and dining room a thorough cleaning, taking down all the pictures, washing the walls &c. and it took us all hard at work but we feel much pleased with the result.

We have got the double windows off to-day and clean shutters up, so glad to have them off; and the things in the garden coming on so fast. A shower last night makes everything so green, crocuses out & violets and our Christmas Rose took into its head to begin blooming last month, it looks like the May-apple flower.

To-day there is considerable excitement, for Col. McLaren is bringing up his contingent with their field kitchen and there is to be a grand parade. Our red flag has been taken over to decorate office, but I am very much afraid it is going to rain.

We were glad to know you had been taken to a Sugar Camp. I always remember in my child-hood going and that lovely taffy, the Syrup poured on the snow, "jack wax" we called it. But your weight is quite alarming. We think when Hilda and Edna arrive, they will think us a husky family. Miss Fisher came in on Thursday for tea; she has come up to Mrs. Logie for a rest, had been very poorly, with shingles, really a breakdown from the long strain with Mrs. Hood.

Miss Kate Mackenzie here for a few days and spent a evening. The farm has been given up, she goes to Muskoka for the Summer. Did you hear of poor Graham Bell going as a Soldier? Shaved off moustache dyed his hair and gave false age. He was washing dishes at the camp, and that young Roy Dan's son going as Lieut. on the staff. Pryse Montagne as Capt. of staff is going from Vancouver to Calgary &c., inspecting the troops with his Chief. O what a wearisome war it is! Emily Colquhoun is home for few days. Poor dear little Ruby is away from all the sorrow and turmoil.

Did you notice Colin Fletcher is a D.D? Must close with much love.

Your loving Mother

M. B. McQuesten