July 25^th 1882

My dear Sister

Your epistle of the 26th June safely to hand. I shall be delighted to have your youngest hopeful, on the occasion of whose birth I must congratulate you, as my God-son. I am very sorry I shall not be able to be present at the ceremonial but I dare say some-one will stand for me. Neville Douglas is a very pretty name indeed but where on earth have you got the Neville from? Well, whose to be God Mother? Somebody awfully nice, for mind I do not wish to be associated in this undertaking with an ancient dame or proud stuck-up beauty, somebody nice, genteel and quiet.

What a stock of McTavishes this world seems destined to hold. If your family continues to increase this way, there wont be much room in B.C. left for any one else.

Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. O'Harals eldest daughter, gave birth to a son & heir on the 6th June. It is a fine healthy child.

Dolly has been travelling on the Continent. She came back some time last week after an enjoyable trip. Her lines seem to have fallen in very pleasant plans.

Aunt Jane, Cecilia & two boys were in Edinburgh about a month ago. Aunt J. is a regular butter-tart. greasy & [?], but full of good humor. We had a very nice time of it together. It wants but a few minutes of 12, so that I must be off to the Infirmary, after which, to R. I shall go to [?] (3 miles walk) for a sun bathe I go nearly every day before dinner. It is a long way to go but one does not mind that for the pleasure to be derived from it.

Now good bye

Love to every body from your affect. Brother

J. Douglas Helmcken