I fancy all my old correspondents will be very jealous of me now that I never write to anyone but you. The fact is that I begin to fell that my affections hitherto were although in a great measure fixed upon you never so entirely centred on you to be exclusive of my other friends as they now are. Take care of yourself dearest & little slave. God bless you and protect you is the sincere prayer and desire of your own affectionate husband Donald McLean If Mr Russel calls you should give him some refreshment and treat him kindly. I almost lost the stone of the ring Mama gave me. Fortunately I found it after a long search in the mud trampled by the horses feet. It would vex me much to lose it.