My dearest Calvin,

I was so glad to receive your letter to-night between seven and eight, the week had seemed so long and I had given up hope of hearing till Monday, thought perhaps the storm had delayed your letter. It was a great surprise to see you were in Toronto, but am so glad you went to Willie McKay's. I am glad to know you are going to extend your holiday, but am afraid it will be a trial to you to have to do so. You speak of me having a hard time, I think it is yourself that has had a very discouraging and up-hill career, but try not to feel badly. That church at B.[Bracebridge] has a very bad reputation and it seems a very unfortunate thing that you should have fallen upon it, but we know that God knows what is best and you did wonders with those people, as shown by the Contributions and the interest taken by the young people, so if you choose to resign it, your health would be a sufficient reason, & you would leave a good record.

I will be so glad to have you home for a few days, & if you cannot let us know exact time do not trouble, we are always ready for you. I have had a long weary four weeks, but I hope now I am really on the mend, having gone through all the stages which [?] with sciatica. My friends have been most kind, I wish you could see my room; to-day came daffodils from Mrs. Proctor, lovely roses from Mrs. Husband and a beautiful azalea plant from Mrs. Mullin.

In to-night's paper is the death of George Moncur, he was the father of [?] &c. he died in Newark. Mr. Ketchen was here, inquired for you, says he just knows his limitations, that if he went to all the things he is expected to go to, he couldn't stand the life at all. You will be seeing Mr. [McKonacher?] & probably hearing the last joke about [Christine?], or he can tell it you. Do not be tempted to go up to B.B.[Bracebridge?]. Thank you so much for sending the special delivery letter, so that I got it before Sunday. Hope to be quite picked up by the time you come. With much love from all Cal dear.

Your loving mother

M.B. McQuesten