Our dear friend Mrs. Claudet

I've been worried you haven't written, it's been three months without knowing if you're still at home or dead, when I wasn't informed you were sick I was very angry indeed, and then your two boys were crying, Bailie shouldn't have gotten angry with your mother. I suppose it won't be long and winter will be over in New West. Then you and your husband will be taking the kids to C[?????] to see the Brunette River and have a picnic and have some Brandy and Soda. I'm jealous. It's still five [????] of snow and I'm not far off turning into an icicle. Pretty soon all the Americans will go "mad dog" too. Our friend Elwyn wants have a good chat with you and your husband and I also need to talk to your husband and kids. If you don't write soon, I'll abandon you and [you] won't be our friend [anymore]. For now I'll say, Farewell friend,

I remain [yours]

HM Ball