R.M.S. Columba
29th May 1901
My dear Ethel,
Father & I started from Glasgow early this morning, came by train to Gourock & are now on board this steamer going through the Kyles of Bute to Ardrishaig.
We had a very nice day in Edinburgh yesterday; we arrived there about 11 o’clock & went first to the castle which is situated on the top of a very high rock, there ought to be a lovely view from there, but though fine it was hazy, so we could not see far. We went to St Giles’ Cathedral & then walked down the High St & Canongate, quite the old part of the town, as far as Holyrood Palace. We were not able to go over the Palace as the Lord High Commissioner was staying there. After getting some lunch we took a char-a-bang to Roslyn Castle & Chapel, the latter is a perfect little gem & in a most lovely situation. We just had time on our return to Edinburgh to walk down Princess St, the most beautiful street I have ever seen anywhere, I must describe it when we meet.
I was pleased to get your letter on Monday, I am glad Baby is so much at home & hope she will not be much trouble either to you or to Auntie. Give her my love & a kiss & tell her I liked her little letter & am glad she loves Auntie Polly.
I hope Mary is all right again, a week or two at the sea will do her good, tell her if she can get to us before the 18th, she can join the picnic to Tewkesbury.
Has Essie arrived yet? I do hope she will behave herself & not make them all uncomfortable.
I hope you will have a fine day to go to [?] tomorrow.
With much love to you & Juliet & all at Richmond
I remain
Your loving mother
Eugénie N Sladden
P.S. Have you been to see Gwen Cooke yet? I hope poor Gladys Oram is getting better.
