To j> r . G-e orge G . Ke nne dy . - 8~ 



called during my enforced absence I shall look to you accordingly 

 to make all necessary excuses for ay absence, and also pay all fines 

 that the good order of the Institution shall inflict upon this delin- 

 quent . 



Although I am informed that this town has clearer atmos- 

 pheric conditions this winter than have been known for several 

 generations., from my months ' experience here I should not care to 

 invest heavily in orchids or any other choice horticultural family 

 for cultivation in this neighbourhood. Yesterday I dined with my 

 friend Mr. Richards, of the Dominion Steamship Co., at his BeauM".- 

 ful estate in Cheshire, and partook of most attractive looking r us sat 

 coloured pears, grown on the premises, which for flavour might 

 possibly compare with a well-grown rutabaga, as produced in our lati- 

 tude. I also partook of so-called black Hamburg s of enormous size, 

 full of juice, but with a flavour not equal to a garden gooseberry. 

 How any fruit can be produced with full flavour in such a dull, 

 smoky atmosphere as would seem to be normal here it is difficult to 

 surmise. I am much enjoying the mild winter temperature, the qi.iiet 

 orderly method of life here prevailing, but thus far have not conclud 

 -ed to remove my humble abode from its x^esent location. 



After spending some father time in Great Britain at will 

 be necessary for me to pursue the purposes of my present trip on 

 the Continent, first at Paris, then at Vienna, afterwards at Basle 

 and other points. There is a half formed plan in my mind to take a 

 look at the wonderful dam just opened on the Kile, and afterwards to 

 take a glimpse at the flower gardens ux^on the southern Mediterranean. 



You are doubtless at this very moment, drinking in the 



