Dec 23. Red Barns, Coatham, Redcar. Dearest Mother. Thank you for the cheques. I have given one to Bella. We had a most successful and enjoyable day yesterday. Hugo bore himself like a man - he is the most fearless person I know! I looked after him to the best of my ability, which is a difficult thing to do in the middle of a run. He came off once, small blame to him! It was a difficult place for a beginner with a drop on the other side. Ivor, who was just in front of me, as nearly as anything came off over it. I have talked seriously to Mrs P. about the servants' party and done all I could to persuade them to have it this week. But nothing will induce them not to wait till Mary comes home and they then wish to give a little dance to a few of their friends - a funest[?] idea, but I don't see what more I can do in the matter! I do hope your move will prosper! I gather that anyhow the Tyrrells will leave on the 2nd as his leave is up on the 3rd. You must be awfully tired! if you don't come home on the 2nd will you consider whether you wd not like me to come back? I will do whatever you like and all the teas and things will be over. I'm going up to M'bro [Middlesbrough] tomorrow to make final arrangements. Ever your very affectionate daughter Gertrude
I'm so sorry you didn't know we were going to R'ton [Rounton] on Friday. I thought I told you.