[No envelope. Appears to be written in December 1901. It appears that Alice is away on a visit to relatives in Boston, leaving Janet in charge at home.]
Sunday evening.
Dear Janet,
Please put Grandma’s Xmas presents in their stockings, that bug will flutter its wings if you give it a little push, and travel at a great rate when wound up. I found my note-book after all. I wore my best waist to-day, it fits beautifully. I look a little more than one of the upper middle class with it on. Miss Churchill asked me if I had brought you with me, I told her it would be more like you bringing me now-a-days. Bernard is at Smallies, I start for Boston on Wednesday, Grandma on Thursday. I find I have just no time for anything. I have a very comfortable bed a hot stick. My arm has taken, but nothing to speak of. Grandma put in two more lawn handkerchiefs with knot edge, for you and Amy to take a pattern of and keep. I send Mrs. J. J. Irving a silly little penwiper. Put a toothbrush in John & Tom’s stockings. I think John will have a nice supply of handkerchiefs. I begin to want to hear the news. I am sending 3 french letters for puzzles to my french party. I am enjoying each single moment. I feel some slight punctures of conscience on your account, but do not kill yourself and be good to John & Bob.
I remain
Your affectionate
Mother Alice Cairns.