Mary Lee to Mr Dawes, Boxing Day 1895

WS Logo crossed out.
Barnard St West N.A.
Boxing Day 1895

Dear Mr. Dawes,

I have just been telling a lady friend in whom you have some interest that I am about to write to a gentleman in whom I have some interest, away in the "back-blocks" and give him some information about folks who are very dear to both of us. Now of first importance is Miss Evelyn Dawes who bids fair to be, in the coming future, the most imposing figure, not only in that far away home but possibly in some other of those far away homes.

I think it not very improbable that when the time comes for her return you & I will have to draw lots to ascertain who has the best right to this most precious possession.; seriously I already begin to dread the loneliness she will bequeath to me when her sweet silvery prattle & patter of her darling wee feet no longer makes the music of this home as they do now; she is wondrously intelligent &, unlike most children, she is never "in the way" she seems however to have got so used to dear Mama doing every little service for her that I fear their may be a little trouble by-and-bye - however we must not anticipate disagreables (sic) & I know that your sweet gentle-spirited sister will be everything not only to "our baby" but to all of us.

Dear Mrs Dawes is well & though I know full well, that at such a time, she must feel this necessary separation she is sweetly brave & uncomplaining. Of course these separations have their compensations & to those who care for each other as you & she do, the re-union is always a honeymoon.

I have felt you should have a line from me to re-assure you that all is well.

We have had a quiet but happy Xmas together & trust that yours has been equally happy; Trusting that the all-wise and all-loving Father may shortly send the much wished for rain & the New Year may come to us ringed with the blessings we most need, according to His Divine wisdom & with the united affectionate good wishes of our little circle here - Believe me Dear Mr. Dawes

Yours very truly

Mary Lee