| | | 20 July |
Shanghai July 20th
Dear Papa,
You will think that I always write in a hurry, and very right you will be, but the fact is the days seem hardly long enought to accomplish anything in. The dentist takes such a slice out of each day, which practically ends at four o'clock when I have to dress & go to the parlor, to see anybody who may call. After five we invariably go out to return calls or to drive; or as yesterday to drop in at the country club, where I saw the Lamsons. I was beginning to think I never should, but he was very empressé & as nice & amusing as ever. Hot & in a decided négligé after playing tennis he was not handome but I enjoyed the few minutes relaxation from the heavy stilted conversation of the others. He asked most particularly after you & was troubled with the thought that he had said something in his last letter which had offended you, as you had not answered him. I reassured him on that score & explained that you had been ill etc. He seemed relieved. Monday evening I had a pleasant chat with Mr. Fearson (James) who joined us at the gardens. He was unusually sociable & agreable.
I see nothing else for the present. -- Thanks for your letters & those enclosed, I return Uncle John's for you to read. It must be a nuisance to have the Bunker's next door, to say nothing of the others. My teeth are very troublesome & painful to work on & I cannot possibly get away before the end of next week even taking two sittings a day for two or three days. I dare not do it oftener it is such a strain on my nerves. Mama's waist came all right -- no books in the box - & the tailor is at work on her dress for the wedding. I trust she will like it. Let me have your measures for dressing gown & I can have that attended to. I really do not see why Amy needs to worry over the secrecy of my engagement. I have weritten home & we shall speak of it here very soon & if trying to anyone it is to me, especially of late. The Low's send remembrances. I many kisses to you & Mama.
Ever afftly
H.M. H.
I was shocked to see the death of Walker Blaine in the papers.
The amah I had enjoyed now throws me up for another place and I am again on the hunt. I am afraid I shall not get so good a one again.
| | | 20 July |