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New York Dec 20th 1885

My dear Friend

 at last I find an opportunity to answer your very nice and welcome letter, I am dreadfully disappointed you are not in N. York this winter I miss your kind sympathies so much at the same time I am glad to think you can be with your sisters this winter I know how much you will appreciate it and I have no doubt but your sisters will also, just as much, how I envy you that sweet sisterly companionship, few understand it except those who have enjoyed it, and have been deprived of it. I often think what a lonely being I would 

added at left side so now dear friend I must conclude by sending Lizzies love with my own to yourself and Sisters wishing you all the compliments of the Season happy I shall hear from you soon believe me your sincere friend

 E. Jardine

added at top dont forget to save me some of Anna's Pansy seed, and look for your verse on New Years morning send me yours and I will send you mine, "as the children say"