To Mr Campbell Advocate at his house in the Cowgate
Edin[burgh]
I write this my Dearest Life from Halkhead where we arrived in perfect safety about an hour ago; & as the Horses are to be some part of the way to night I shall detain them no longer than to tell you My Dearest Jewel that I received your last by yesterdays post as to my Brothers reserve at meeting ’tis nothing more than common, for 'tis the greatest fault almost he has, that of a great shiness [sic] at first but it goes off after a little; what should occasion it to you I can not find out for what ever fault they may find with me for not mailing their agreement that has no concern with you, & I should take it very ill I must own did that reserve continue; I left the dr [dear] little folks in quite good health, yr Mama complains again of her arm but I hope it will soon be well; I have given Finlay a crown to defray his travelling charges the above he will count for; I enclose a line of Miss Rosses to Mr Cozie the shoemaker which be so good my dearest to send by James, & let him bring the answer; O.’ I long more and more for yr arrival the nearer the time comes, take care my Dear Life of the Horse you ride it scars [sic] a good deal especially with hard ridding [sic]; all here remember you, & I remain a jamais yours. My Dear Life, adieu
GC
Jully [sic] 25th