Lancing
13 November 1891
My dear Chris
I expected to hear from the Balchins this morning about their shipment in the ???? but have not so far in time for this week’s mail.
A destructive hurricane passed over us on 9 – 10 and 11 doing no end of damage. Barometer fell here to 28.30 ????. The ???? did not leave the dock until 11th. I expect she is at Plymouth this morning. The Bar now is closed down to 29 inches we expect a repetition.
We are all well and find our house comfortable and dry in spite of the extreme wet. I find plenty of occupation although it is not of a remunerative kind, and keep in excellent health.
I was in town four days last week and saw the Balchins several times and am convinced you cannot have your interests better looked after. My friend Hurley found out all about timber and wooden houses which they advised you about last week.
Your uncle Robert’s wife died on the 10th from cancer. I was at the house on the 5th and sat a good deal with her. She suffered no pain but the disease was growing inwardly and pressing on the lungs. She suffocated gradually poor woman.
I have nothing particular to say. Your interesting letter of 14 September came in good time. You must be hard driven with your correspondence. Don’t overtax your brain else your health will break. I have no doubt you are existing in a whirl of excitement at the present time and you want to make the most of the chance put in your way. Do this with prudence, but maintain your health. Get plenty of rest and eat well. A pity Alec can’t relieve you of some of the correspondence.
I have not heard anything more of the young man who I wrote you about. You will probably pick up someone on the field suitable should you want more help.
I am teaching the boys short hand and book-keeping – will get them some good lessons by and by. Edie is here for a few weeks.
We are all well and join in love to you and Alec.
Your affectionate Father
J A Elmslie