I manage to keep in touch with most of us, chiefly through their children. Letitia I never see. I should like to, but she is not strong, and Tunbridge Wells is a long way off, and it is impossible to detach her from her husband, whom we rather avoid. I am afraid she is not happy, but I can do very little to help. Clara’s son and daughter—Roy and Hazel—are very lively correspondents, and Evangeline, their youngest, seems a thoughtful child; but I fear that Hector Barrance can be rather difficult at times. Theodore’s only girl is just eighteen. Anna’s boy Horace is a rather serious young man at the Bar. Lionel is still unmarried; he was made a C.B.E. in the War. Ronald is also unmarried and I hear from him now and then, but his duties keep him very close in Edinburgh. Every one is very kind to me in my illness, Richard Haven—you remember him?—writing every day. He is fixed in London. Nellie Sandley, whom you were so sweet upon that summer at Lyme Regis, died last week, poor girl, of pneumonia. I wonder if all this interests you in the least, or if your new life in your new country is all-absorbing. It would be delightful to see you again. But at any rate do write and send some photographs if you can. Write directly you get this and then a longer letter later.—Your loving sister, VERENA _P.S._—I often wonder if you would not like the series of hunting scenes by Alken that used to be in the dining-room. Let me know and I will send them. LXII VERENA RABY TO THEODORE RABY MY DEAR THEO,—How very delightful to hear from you—even though it is such a tale of woe. I don’t want you to have more of such perplexities, but I do want to have another letter. It was odd too because I was just beginning a long one to Walter asking for his news and telling him mine. If Josey writes to me, you may be sure I will be on your side—but can’t you get her something to do? It is idleness and enough money to buy new frocks that lead to these problems. I should like her to come here, but, as you say, she wouldn’t accept just now.—Your very loving V. LXIII EVANGELINE BARRANCE TO VERENA RABY DEAR AUNT VERENA,—I hope you are better. I told you some time ago that we were preparing a great surprise for you to cheer you up on your bed of sickness and pain. Well, it is now ready and I send the first number. If you get well quickly there will never be another. It is called _The Beguiler_ and has been written for you chiefly by the girls here. I am the editor. My great friend Mabel Beresford copied it all out. Doesn’t she write beautifully? I hope you will like it. Roy has read it and he says it ought to deliver the goods.—Your loving EVANGELINE No. 1. May, 1919