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I would have wrote you on Sunday
to acquaint you with the melancholy news (which before
you receive this you will have heard) the death of our
Dear babes but having a great deal to do, and being then, and
even now at a loss where to find you, I beg'd Miss Bannerman
to send express to Bonhard upon receiving the few lines I
sent her - I have been looking with eager expectation
for ↑you↑ since Teusday night. I am now almost become frantic
with anxiety, as Mr Barty who attended at the burial
hinted that you had not been well, although afterwards
I observ'd he wish'd to smooth it. - I must my Dearest
Brother blame you exceedingly for your writing so
seldom, and for your reserve with regard to your health
I find my spirits failing, and you are in some measure
the cause of it. My reflections on Augusta are very
pleasing, altho' her death was sudden her last moments
were calm & easy, her father & I witnessed the last
solemn scene. Jackey's grief was at first very violent
but it is now subsided, it was a trial sent in mercy
upon us, which heaven grant may be sanctified
you will have the particulars of her distress at
meeting - As it was impossible to give Miss B:
notice in time to be with us before the burial

I am much at a loss where to direct but
as Miss B: in her last letter mention'd it being
probable you might come over with her Brother
I shall send it to Bonhard where it can wait
you - Adieu Mr B and Jackey join me in
Affectionate wishes believe me to be

Alexr Macduff E[sqr.]
Care of Mr Peter Duff {illeg}
at William Macdonalds ↓Esqr↓ Writter to
the Signett Edinr
Perth