81 St Mary’s Mansions
18 June 1906
My Dear Chris
I send these lines to Naples – not much news to give. We are all well and in much the same condition as when you left us.
We had to move Charlotte away – she is lodging with Ellen Stephen. She got to be very useless and was much in the way.
Noel so far has not got employment – is here with us.
Archie has been kept very close at work. Blake’s absence through illness was a great bloc to him – however he did good business. Blake has got quite well.
We have heard nothing of Alec since you wrote. Your leaving must have cast him down. Death in his condition would be a happy release to himself and all concerned. I have just finished a long letter to him but it is chiefly made up of imagining little sketches. I wrote to him last in April and alas to you by same mail. You would have left before they were due.
I imagine that Katie like yourself has not had much of a holiday, but I hope she and the boys have kept in good health. The ranges of temperatures that has been our experience all through May and June so far has checked the enjoyment of the time of year – two or three sunny days then two or three dull sky and cold N and E winds. When I write the conditions are that of a semi winter day. By the time you come this state of things will be readjusted I hope.
Archie has visited Weybridge a good many times in your absence – his reports are always very satisfactory.
Hope to see you all well early in July. Meantime we write in loving regards,
Your affectionate Father
Jas A Elmslie