Royal Gardens, Kew.
May 24 /[18]80.
My dearest Gracie*1 As Mamma could not write to you last week I think you should have two letters from home this week and so I send you this. Mamma is very busy sending out invitations to people saying that she will be at home on Friday afternoons, so if they wish to call they will know that she is sure to be at home and to see them, and they will get some tea and cake and ices if they wish for refreshment, and have a walk in the Garden. Willy*2 is going away for a month on Saturday, he is going with some friends in a yacht to sail round Ireland. They will take their own provisions in the yacht and as they are all musical they will take their violins &c. too. I hope you keep up your music, and will be able to play to me, I am so fond of Music. Charlie*3 is very happy at Coltishall near Norwich where he is practising as a Doctor. We dined at Mr and Mrs Hodgson's yesterday, they are quite well. Brian is living with Uncle George in London and is studying hard. Reggie keeps an excellent character at school and is quite well. Mamma will tell you all about Joey. Ever dearest Gracie, Your loving father, | J.D.Hooker. Give my best compliments to Miss Bird and Mademoiselle.