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10 September 1886
My dear Chris
I suppose that you think that I am never going to write to you again, but I have been so awfully worried of late, that it has put everything else out of m y head.
Firstly my engagement is broken off – that has worried me a good deal. Well, he could not find anything to do – times are very bad just now, and there was not much chance of him getting enough to marry on for some time. So we thought it better to break it off, it was hard, Chris, it made me feel very bad but I suppose God meant it for the best, although it was hard indeed.
Then again, since Xmas Mrs Traill was very ill so I had her to nurse and the house to look after. So, you can fancy, I had no time for being idle and, in time, Mrs Traill, I am sorry to say, died. For five weeks before she died she was very bad indeed, I had very little rest the last week. I got a nurse in for her. We had two doctors but they said there was no hope. It is a dreadful thing. Her father is out in India, not able to come home, and there are five left here – three sons and two daughters – the girls are the youngest. I was not considered quite old enough to be here by myself as Harry is nineteen and David seventeen. So a lady about 40 is living here taking charge. The house is taken on for another year.
In the meantime I am looking out for another place. I am not going home. Mama and I do not get on very well. I like being out, and go out as lady helps. They are in a great rage about it at Poplar as they think I ought not to be out at all. I hope soon to find something else. I will then let you know my address. In the meantime do write and send the letter to Poplar as I can always get it there. Address it to me though.
I am so glad to hear that you are getting on so well. Write and tell me what you are doing. I have just written to Alex.
Things are going on just the same as usual at Bedford. Charlotte is leaving, she is going out as stewardess in the Sobraon this voyage. Miss Shand who was in the ship is going to live at Essilmont to teach the children and to be a companion to the Mater. Jessie and Jean are getting on very well. Alice Tatham is not married yet and is not sure when they will be – this is a long engagement.
I will write a longer letter next time, dear. This is to show you, your humble servant has not forgotten you sir. Write soon, forgive me for not writing before.
With much love from your loving Sister
Edith Elmslie
In haste so please excuse mistakes. I am sending my photo. I do so hope you will like it.