My dearest Calvin,

It is I am sure most encouraging to have so many young people joining the church for the first time at your first communion. You must try and not endeavour too much to work up the feelings of the people on that occasion by working up yourself. It should be celebrated with reverence and seriousness, but not distressing melancholy. Then it makes the occasion one to be dreaded. Besides it wears yourself out, which is the chief thing for you to guard against.

There is a report through a letter from Mrs. Watson's son to her that Gourlay Colquhoun is to have the Victoria Cross for conspicuous bravery in rescuing a comrade. It is not yet confirmed, and I am sure it will be difficult to confer all that are deserving in this terrible war.

By some peculiar management Miss Ord's German fiance got a passport from Sherwood at Ottawa and Mrs. Ord herself went with him so he has made his escape to New York, greatly to the indignation of many, but we do not exactly like to relay information against the Ords.

Next Monday I go off to Toronto again. We have only two more Board meetings before our annual meeting here on May 2nd. It is a tremendous undertaking, will be glad when it is over. Our maid came back on Sunday might, her wrist pretty nearly well, she is turning out very well and we are hoping to have considerable comfort. She is very trustworthy and a good worker, and I must run off now.

You spoke of Reception at the Manse. Have you got carpets down and furniture in order. You have never told us, how far or how you have things arranged in the house. With much love from all.

Your loving mother

M.B. McQuesten