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Page:Bird-lore Vol 03.djvu/30

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Three Letters to Audubon's "Kentucky Lads" 15 rode outside to have better views of the country I traveled through; now and then I saw some fine EngHsh Pheasants that you would delight in shooting, also some curious small sheep with black heads and feet, the rest white, and some of those pretty little ponies you are so fond of; I wish I could send you one. Before I left Manchester I visited Matlock, Bakewell and Buxton, all watering places. I drove in a carriage with Mrs. Rathbone and her daughter; the latter purchased and sends you a beautiful little black box of Matlock marble, or spar, and Mrs. Rathbone sends your good mamma an inkstand of the same material. I was very much interested in all the places I saw and wished very much that you, mamma and Victor had been with me to enjoy the journey. Today I have visited the Royal Palac? of Holyrood, was in the rooms of Queen Mary of Scotland, and saw her bed, chairs and tables. 1 looked at my face in the mirror that once was hers, and I was in the little room where the murder of Rizzio was committed. I also saw the chapel where the Queen was married to Lord Darnley. It was all very curious and very interesting. The apartments where the present king of France resided during his exile were also shown to me, and the fine rooms where George the Fourth was, four years ago, when he visited Scotland. The women of the poorer class work very hard here, and carry heavy burdens, just as our squaws do in Louisiana, in a large basket behind, and a leather strap coming from it over their foreheads. I bought for your dear mamma eighteen views of different parts of the city that I will send when I make up another box. In a day or so I will go to Roslyn Castle, and afterwards to Melrose to see the chapel and to call on Sir Walter Scott, the great novelist, some of whose books we have enjoyed together. I hope you are good and obedient, and are improving in your draw- ing. Draw as much as you can, ami study your music also, as men of talents are welcome all over the world. Two hours daily is little enough for you to give to your violin if you intend to become proficient in the handling of that instrument, and more would be better. When you write to me tell me of all your occupations ami write me a lonii letter. Mr. Bentley, of Manchester, will write to ou for bird- skins; these you know how to prepare well, and I neeil not remind ou to do your work carefully, ami in return .Mr. Hentley will send you s<ime books. I send ni loxc- to ()ur mamma; remember me to little Charles, Bourgeat ami all, ami beliee me for ever your most affectionate far her and friend, .1. .1. .AlDl HON.