I expected that we would have been at Waikanae and back by this time. I am very much disappointed that we did not go. I told you in my letter by last mail that we were to start on Tuesday last but Papa found that it would be impossible if we want to get back in time for the Court so we were obliged to give up all thoughts of going. It is a great pity for Mama appeared very much disappointed. I know that the trip would have done her a great deal of good. We should as you say have gone sooner but it was not our fault. We had no wish to remain for the ball. Mrs Hickson had made up her mind to stay so we could not help it. You ask me why I did not enjoy the ball.