| Description | Ross was pleased to receive Magdalene's letter, which indicates that she is in better health and has enjoyed her stay at Shrewsbury and the various excursions she has made with Maria and John. Magdalene must have been pleased to see Edwin and William again, the former after so long an absence - he supposes that she found Edwin much altered and hopes that the voyage has recovered his health.
Ross was concerned to hear that John was unwell and would like to know how he is now. He was much amused to hear of Magdalene's ascent of Snowdon and the vagaries of the ponies. He hopes to reach London in time to see young John Burgess's moustaches and drawings, which he expects to find very clever. Ross would like Magdalene to commence Maria's miniature as soon as possible, before she becomes busy in London. He is currently working on a large miniature of a lady in a dark green satin gown, with a pleasant smiling countenace, rosy cheeks, a sky ground and a wreath of ivy adorning her head. He also two small miniatures under hand which he supposes will be the last he will do here, as he expects to return to London in the course of a fortnight. Ross is going to stay with his dear friend, William Chapman, who has been of service not only as a spiritual friend, but also as a patron in sitting for and recommending Ross.
Ross believes their father has informed Magadalene of the death of Aunt Grasby. It is of great satisfaction to him that that they were able to administer comfort to her in her latter days and that she bore her misfortunes with patience and tranquility. Anything that Magdalene may have to send to poor Mary James will be thankfully received and Ross has authorised their father to send her half a sovereign.
Ross reports that he has generally attended the church where the parties go and has been agreeably surprised with the improvement which is taking place in the preaching of Ministers of the Establishment. He also asks again to know how John is, for is he is anxious for John's welfare as well as that he should soon be off Ross's hands. He supposes they shall all meet at Christmas, which he hopes will be a happy meeting.
While Ross has been painting, Miss Orme has been reading to him, which has made the time pass very agreeably. He has generally done painting until 3, when he has taken a ride on a very pretty chestnut pony lent to him by Miss Sarah Clayton. |