Parsonage Kircubin,
Sept 10^th 1837

My dear Lucy,

I received your letter in Belfast and was truly sorry to find by ut that my dear, and valued friend, and relation had died on the morning it was written. Bessy Cumine was a great favourite of my father’s and lived with him for many years of his childhood. She had, I know, been a long time in delicate health and I suppose nature was exhausted, and hope she died without much suffering. Mrs Johnston is now the only surviving member of the family, and a new generation presents itself in the person of Mrs Parkinson and her children. I beg to be kindly remembered to them all, in which I am joined by Mrs Lascelles. Sophy sends you a note with a present of a work box from Mrs Jardine who was very well when we heard from her, and happy in the society of Sit William and Lady Jardine at Jardine Hall. As long as Me Jardine’s leave of absence continues they will remain there, unless they take a short trip to Edinburg. I am sorry it will not be in my power to see you at present as I am hurried on business of consequence and I shall be obliged to go to Belfast - when you write direct to Kirkcubbin. I request you will make the tenants pay your rent punctually. If they do not do so it will be better to take it into my own hands and hand them over to my attorney. Take care of your health and let me hear all the news as often as you have leisure.

I am dear Lucy,

Affectly yours,

F.E. Lascelles.