I went to went to Mrs Stevenson's last night who gave me a small parcel for you which I had the idle curiosity to examine and for doing which I must beg your ladyship's pardon, in fact until I saw what it was I might be under an impression that the parcel contained an account of my old sweethearts and wives in the Highlands. You do not know how often I may have been married at least you told me yourself that you suspected I had been so I did not wish Mrs S to confirm these suspicions. She leaves today for the Bay. Her baby is a very pretty one. I spoke to Mr Wallace this morning about sending a man up to shingle the kitchen. Make the party you wish for, improve the chimnies etc so you see how attentive I am to your wishes. I would rather not go to the Sharp's. It is probable Dr Sinclair may call today or tonight. I think I may now subscribe myself, Madam Your very obt. servant Donald McLean Wednesday 14 Augt 1851