which I shall get back to Wellington. I shall not delay here longer than I can help and having been absent during so many holidays it would give me great pleasure to be with you on your 23rd birthday which does not after all leave you very old in my estimation although you only looked like a simple young half grown Scotch lassie when I first saw you. I suppose you are a little displeased with Mr Swainson for not complimenting you on your continued juvenile appearance. I hope the trip with the Harts to Porirua has proved a pleasant one for you and Mamma. The old Laird is generally indifferent to these violent joltings & changes so I need not ask how he enjoyed himself. I am glad that your