Mary Ann NEISH [629]

  General Notes:

Image courtesy of R Filsell
(Picture in photo gallery of locket with profiles - likely Mary Ann Morison nee Neish)

Scotland, Select Births and Baptisms, 1564-1950 [database on-line]
Mary Ann Neish; female; 12 Mar 1815; Old Machar, Aberdeen, Scotland; Joseph Neish; Mary Strachan (FHL Film No. 991142).

Mary Ann NEISH had two children before she married James MORISON: Elizabeth STEPHEN and John ANDERSON.

The following letters (11+34 = 45 in all) were transcribed by Rosemary Filsell about 1980, from original letters written by Mary Ann Morison Snr (nee Neish), to her son in Natal and Capetown South Africa, then Adelaide, South Australia.
Some letters were shared letters written with her daughter Mary Ann Morison (later Mary Ann Roy), who maintained the responsibility of the correspondence until her demise in 1888 when letters seemed to cease.

Image 99a
55 High Street, Perth.
June 13th, 1880.
My Dear Brother,
I take the pleasure of writing a few lines to you to let you know how your friends this side of the Atlantic are.
You have the advantage of me now, having lots of news, that somehow I feel as though there was 0 to tell you. However, I'm afraid this confession wont supply the place of a letter, so I will do my best, hoping that our warmest love and constant thoughts will atone for the quantity and quality of the news.
We were delighted to see that you were so well on your London voyage. Dear me, it seems next door, but if you had'nt been going further, I would have thought it a long road.
We watched the Brittania until we could see nothing but its smoke, then went & had tea, & seeing a regiment of Artillery bending . . . (only one page - rest of letter missing)

Image 100a
55 High Street,
Perth.
July 7, 1880.
My Dear Brother,
I expect you will just have arrived in Cape Town. I hope you have had a pleasant voyage, and trust that you will reach your destination safely. The weather's smiled on you all the way. We got our holidays on Wednesday 30th June. We had very hard work this year before the close. I have'nt had much of a rest yet for Saturday being the Midsummer Holiday, we went by the excursion to Aberdeen. We came home on Monday night. We had a splendid journey & trip - No breakdowns by the way. It rained all Saturday but Sabbath & Monday were beautiful days & we walked well. I think we saw as much as we possibly could in the time. We stayed with Forbes Anderson & went out to Ruthreiston, Bridge 'o' Dee (Ruthrieston, Bridge of Dee), to see Nancy. She was kind after a fashion. She is looking very well & strong for her age. Aberdeen's a beautiful city. I never felt so enamoured of it before. When I build a house, I must have it of Aberdeen granite. No doubt, that'll be when there's two moons in the sky as Phobie says, when there's anything wonderful to happen.
We had a visit from William & Agnes Thomson on Monday before & Joseph & Agnes the day of our Examination. It being the holidays. They are all very well. Aggie's baby's eyes are very weak. It can only see with part of one of them. You remember they were weak when we were down last summer. We received your letter from Madeira on the 24th June. I hope you'll get the letters I post. It seems so funny to post the letter & not be sure where, if at all, it will find you. We sent away newspapers also.
Last night, we had a visit of Willie McLagan a farewell visit. He has got an appointment in an African Bank at Port Elizabeth, and sails in the Dublin Castle to-morrow 8th July. He has been very fortunate. He deserves to be so. He's wrought very hard. He will be a long way from you, but he says he may be sent up the country & if so will look for you. He is going out as an Agent in the Bank.
There will soon be quite a colony of Scotch & even Perth folks out there. If you succeed I'll come out too, but you'll be wanting some other body. That somebody was up a week a go with a beautiful flower. I wish you had seen it. It was very kind of her. I hope you will get promotion & be able to send for her. It makes us feel the country nearer us, when so many friends are out.
The Stalkers & Mrs. & Mifs Scobie are down at the Ferry. I'm going for a day or two to see them. Of course, I'll be in Comrie. We are going to Edinburgh in August, when it is expected there will be a Review the equal of which has not been for twenty years. However, when the holidays are over, I'll give you an account of my travels. Mother is very well. We have'nt exposed the close for sale yet. It requires careful consideration before taking such a step. I am very anxious; but not unless it would be an advantage. It would be foolish to give it away. The Albion Inn's for sale this week. I think the Stuarts are giving it up.
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Image 101a continuation
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55 High Street, Perth
July 7th, 1880
I accepted my situation for another year. I hope you are pleased, are you? I think it is better. I don't know whether I shall regret it or not, but Follow conscience come what may Alike with Heaven & Earth sincere Fear God - but know no other fear. Mrs Shaw's brother's away to Bombay.
Now, John, I've exhausted my stock of news. I will write soon again. It is just post time. Accept our united best love & Hoping this will find you well,
I remain, Your Loving Sister,
Mary Anne Morison.

Image 102a
55 High Street,
Perth.
August 7, 1880.
My Dear Brother,
I just remember where I left off in my journal to you, so I will just continue after a little digression.
What a joyful and long-looked for missive (pencilled though it was) that we had last Wednesday week along with Photo and paper. I'm glad you had a good voyage, only 19 days between Dartmouth & Cape Town while the "Dublin Castle" in which W. Mc. (McLagan) sailed took 22. I think they had experienced a storm as the "Trojan" did & they passed each other about the Canary Isles.
We are expecting to have a letter from Durban this week to tell us your proper address & permanent also, it will be. I believe the board and lodging is very expensive, exorbitant, I think. Janet McL. Says it is to cost Willie £12 or £14 a month, for the same style as he was in, when in London. I'll be expecting to hear of you starting a business for yourself like what was in Auchr. Or some merchantman or some kind you'll become do doubt, for no one cares to come home as he went out. However, you'll be better to remain where you are till you see the country, "reconnoitre" and have your plans fully matured; before action.
However, small a beginning you make keep yourself (personally) above the common rank and file.

Saturday, 14th Augt.
It is now a week since I penned the foregoing. Mrs. McEwan came with me from Comrie (a village western end of Strathearn district of Perth Scotland) and will have spent a fortnight on Wednesday with us. She is frail - 75 years old. She goes home on Wed. Little Jessie came across last Monday and will stay till the August holiday (26th) when Mother will take her home. She is'nt going to school again but cant tell us what she's to be about. You'll have a letter from herself no doubt soon. They are all very well. While talking of Edin. Friends it reminds me of startling information. Mrs. Alex. McLean in Leith died on the 6th inst. We have had no particulars as Mrs. Liddle only sent an intimation to Duncan. The little boy Jack will likely go out to his father in Australia. You see John, There's nothing but changes even in a short time.
I have spent most of this week out at Tibbermore (small village 4m west of Perth Scotland) with my old class-mate Mary Scobie. I left Jessie out I will go out on Mon. to go with them to Dupplin (Perthshire) and then we'll come home on Tuesday. I've had a happy holiday this year, and a long one too.
The Mclagans wish me to go to Carnoustie (a former police burgh in the council area of Angus Scotland) to see them but I don't think I'll go. We'll have enough to do with them just now as Janet is to offer herself at *Hymen's altar next month I believe, & if all's well I'll be at the marriage, so that will be something to tell of when it takes place.
Wednesday Morning.
Jessie & I came home last night. We had a splendid day at Dupplin on Monday. Mrs. McEwan leaves this afternoon.
We are glad to tell you that we received your letter from Durban last Weds.
How nice it was to have someone meeting you and a home prepared for you. I hope you will get on nicely & all your friends with you.
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Image 103a
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55 High Street, Perth,
August 7, 1880.
I'm thinking you have too many warm clothes with you if your winter is as our summer. You must just treat yourself to what you can wear. Ma says you'll get use for the white "drills". The harvest commenced here last week. All the crops are looking well.
You remember of Dr. Baird of course. I'm sorry to tell you he's had a shock & the doctors are very much afraid he will loose the power of his legs. Its very sad for a man so young & promising. Now, my dear John, I think I've exhausted my budget.
Accept Mrs. McEwan's, Mother's, Jessies & my own best love.
I am, Your Dear Sister, Annie.

Image 104a
55 High Street, Perth
Monday, Octr. 18, 1880.
My Dear John,
I had just posted a letter to you before we got your letter which confirmed all our fears.
I cannot tell you how we felt when we read your lines. We could see from it that you were unfit to hold a pen, but oh, John, we were glad to have the letter from your own hand. I would rather have borne the suspense than got a message from a stranger. You have been very ill, I know, and you were a stranger to a long sickness. How wearied you must have been so many weeks, and in a strange hands too, John I think I judge too harshly of strangers, but I trust all beside you were good to you - kind and honest. I know how impatient I am when anything is the matter with me. We should try and bear patiently all that is sent upon us feeling it is for the best, though we cannot see it at the time. I just wish you could get my answer sooner. It will be so strange. You will be getting my letters just now written before your sickness, and perhaps you will think there is little sympathy in them, but dear John, everything was so cheering then circumstances were different and I hope you remember that when you peruse then.
Somehow, I cant help feeling it so strange & yet so pleasing, that, when you get this, you will have got up your spirits again and are enjoying good health. Anyone I've told about your're being ill say that is generally the case, that you will be much stronger, now, when you are acclimatized to the place.
It does'nt come back again, and that is a great comfort.
My dear John, I hope when you are able you will tell us of the treatment you got and all about it. I feel there's a great deal about you out in Natal I would like to know that I would'nt have felt interested when you were at home. How true it is that "Distance makes the heart grown fonder" not that our affection for each other was less, but then we know now what we are to each other. Do your remember the night before you left home? We would never have had such a talk, unless under such circumstances. It's a good thing for us that something breaks down the iron barriers of our hearts and minds, and that we let our feelings have bent, and know there is a kindred spirit with ours. If there's no one beside you, you can talk to, you know there's one ever willing to hear and answer our wishes and expectations.
Now, John, since my letter of last week there is very little news.
The weather has made a decided change to the colder. Top coats, muffs and furs are in.
The ascendant. Its pleasant enough as its so dry. We've had very little rain all the season.
I posted a letter to Edin. Yesterday & very likely you'll have one from there with the same mail at this. But I think they have written before this. I'll write you a longer letter next time. I think we should write every fortnight alternately.
What do you think? But you have two letters this time Mothers & mine. Trusting this will reach you quite recovered. With our best love, We remain Affectionately Yours, Mother & Sister, M. Morrison
(Postscript written by mother)
We have sent you a peper every week since you left and a great many letters.

Image: 087 (Morison M 18 Oct 1880)
55 High Street,
Perth,
18 October, 1880.
My Dear John,
We received your letter on the 13th Oct. we had gust posted one for you the day before we were getting very wearied to heare from you and not getting a pepper we were shure there must be something wrong we were boath very sorry to see what a long time you must have bean very had I hope that you have been well attended to I am afraid that it would take the funds to meet it you being so short time in the place. I hope and trust in God that you will get the better of it and be able to work for yourself again and be careful perhaps you had bean working to much overtime or out in the damp at night you must write and let us now what you think brought it on. I hope by the time that you get this that you will be prety well recovered what kind of water doo you get thire is a great many things you need to be catious with in regard to fruit you must be very carefull of it are you comfortable in your Lodgings. I hope you have a good landlady. I think and wonder at you of speaking of changing the office so soon.
We have got a read of too Port Elisabeth peapers last week Will. McLagan is taking with it very well with the exption of one week he was a littel bad with his bowels but he has bean very well since he went out he writes every post or every week and gives them a fine discreption of everything dear John I hope by this time that you will be well recovered and with the Blessing of God that you will be able for your work long before you receive this you are far far away from your earthly friends but thire is no strange God with you he is ever the same and always ready to help them that draw near to him and ask for his help in a right way wherever they seek the thou art found and every place is Hallowed ground, from your affect Mother,
M. Morison.

Image 105a,106a
55 High Street, Perth.
Novr. 9th, 1880.
My Dear John,
We had a letter yesterday from you, and I hasten to answer it, for, I'm sure, when you wrote it, on the 30 Sept. you expected we would get it sooner than we did.
I cannot tell you how sad we were to hear that you were so ill. I know from your writing how weak you were, but I do get this, you will be quite strong.
I hope you have got my letters and papers I have sent. This is the third since you first told us of your sickness. We both think the change inland will do you a power of good. I sincerely trust it will.
All your well-wishers here tell us it is a climatic fever, which no doubt it is, and that you will be much stronger after you are acclimatized.
Mother bids me tell you (you don't know John how much her thoughts are occupied with you. She would have me continually writing you - The messages would require to all go by telegraph to transmit all requisite information fast enough.)
She bids me tell you if only you could have got it sooner and it had not had to go so far, which would be a risk, she would have sent some of the indispensable (you know well what that is & the value of it) but by the time it would have reached it I hope you will not require it.
I was sorry to hear you were in arrears, but we knew you could not be otherwise.
I hope you will get over it all, that its only a "cloud with a silver lining or a short night before a happy dawn", to you, dear John.
In the papers we posted yesterday you will find all the local news better than I could give you them and I hope you will get them all right and enjoy the perusal of them.
On Saturday last, Bella spent the evening with us - a very happy evening -. To-night she called to bid us goodbye to go away on Thursday to her new situation in Helensburgh (Dumbartonshire). I was glad to draw from her that your landlady had been attentive to you and kind. It would make all the difference. Be the same to her in return when you have strength.
I was a church last Sabbath forenoon with Bella. Next Sabbath we are to have Dr. Burns of Glasgow Cathedral preaching to us in the forenoon & Dr. Anderson, Forteviot, in the afternoon when the Collection for Mission Buildings is to be made.
All about the opening of the North U.P. Church with the splendid collection of £822.
Also notice the death etc. As to Elections you will find them in the papers too. Mr Herriot and Mr. Whittet are quite exultant over their success and the two lamps are now lighting up Craigie Bank. [As to private intelligence, things are just going on as when you left us on the 5th June. A good while now, - is'nt it.
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Iamge 106a
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55 High Street, Perth.
Novr. 9th, 1880.
Mother is always working away. Thursday is the Term day so no doubt she will be busier. I'm glad to be able to tell you she is keeping very well. We've had splendid weather, too good, seemingly, for for the want of rain the sugar works have shortened their hours.
I suppose you have had a letter from Jessie Duncan now. She would tell you of her situation in the studio of Mr. Luny, Photor. I believe down about the Cape is in a confusion with the Rebellion of the Basutos & other tribes. S Willie McLagan relates. It has made them at home very uneasy.
I suppose they are far from you which is a blessing, for they are void of feeling, justice, & mercy when they rebel.
Now, John, Hoping to hear better news from you soon.
I will conclude. Accept our best love and thoughts, and wishes for all the blessings Heaven can bestow.
I am, Your Loving Sister, Mary A. Morrison.

Image 107a & 108a
Perth.
55 High Street,
Novr. 29, 1880.
My Dear John,
With pen in one hand and time's forelock in the other (for it is ten p.m.) I take the pleasure of wiring you my budget continued from my last which will be near its destination now. We had just a delightful missive from you last week, written from Maritz. After you had been a fortnight there.
How happy we were to know that you had quite got over that severe fever which has so much changed you. How I wish I could be transported trans-Atlantic for a season only! To see you as yourself & let us seen the shadow if not the substance. Until you told us in your last how changed you were I thought you were near when I opened my locket. It was such a fac-simile of you then. But, notwithstanding all the changes, we can expect nothing else in this transitory life, we are thankful you are so well and earnestly trust you will remain so.
You said in your/last you meant to remain only a month in Maritzburg, so I have just continued addressing my notes to Durban, but I suppose you will have then conveyed to you. Mother thinks from what she has read and as the sea-air of Durban may not agree so well with you perhaps, Maritzburg would be the better place of the two for you. But, no doubt, you are the best judge yourself and I hope which ever place you are in that you are happy and comfortable and contented. You will always let us know when you write. We were quite delighted with the papers. The Witness is a good one. We lend all our friends them to get a read & all enjoy them very much. I hope you are always getting all we send you have never said you received anything yet but in your illness, everything was excusable. Now, you must tell us if your mails are up to time and what they bring you. Mother was in the Hall on Friday hearing Donald Currie. I don't know if she's a turn-coat and an Old church woman but I rather think she has a partiality to his Castles. I see by the Citizen to-night he is launching a Garth Castle and Drummond Castle soon larger than any of his former steamers.
I got a surprise I was not prepared for to-night. Mifs Bessie Chaplin, the youngest, has been ill about six months yesterday neither of her two sisters had their classes, a co-incidence which never occurred before. So, sure that something serious had prevented them I called to-night, only to find our worst fears realized. She died this morning. It is so sad, though I know she is happy, yet they are left behind. They were so much bound up in each other that it seems like wrenching part of themselves away. Poor bodies, they are very much afflicted. Mrs. Hewat has been with them. She is very kind and was asking for you Mr. Hewat having told her of your illness. She says her brother a\\had fever after he went out too and this is only his second year out. They are very kind & sympathizing people.
I was across at Princes St. on Saturday. Mr. Stalker was away to Edin. Mr Scobie has bought the business & stock from Mr. McKenzie. It was transferred to him a week ago - the term. It is more convenient than having to go & remove to any other place. I don't know what it has cost. A good sum I should think.
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Image 108a
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Perth. 55 High Street,
Novr. 29, 1880.
John Henderson & his spouse were up for a little on Tuesday night. He is always very busy, white bound up in his business but ever cheery.
I am always busy at school - nothing startling or interesting to tell you about my work.
Mr Peddie's assistant has been unfortunate enough to fall & dislocate his knee-cap. Poor fellow! He mus'nt move it for ten weeks. He's in the Infirmary, & we've got a substitute from Edinburgh.
Now, John, my stock is about exhausted I shall conclude to-morrow this epistle. Meanwhile I'll bie to bed & woo sleep to my pillow that enchanters - that refreshes the working man but is often denied a king.
Tuesday morning.
Slept in till 8 a.m. These dark mornings cheat us. We have had a severe gale of wind. It is now over. Little damage was done in Perth beyond the roof of the Princes St. Station blown off. It is very mild now for the season. I suppose you will have midsummer when this gets into your hands. Just about the beginning of a New Year. I hope it may be better than the last. This is a card from Mother & I to you.
Write soon and tell us all about yourself. I will now conclude. Best love from all to you
I am, Your Loving Sister, Mary A. Morison.
P.S. Let us know how you received the N- Y- cartes as I think it rather risky sending them as I've done. M.A.M.

Morison M 20 Dec 1880
Perth,
20 Dec. 1880,
Dear John
We are wearing very much to get a letter from you we are geting the peapers very regular and enjoy them very much but I would have you to writ every three or four weeks you need not be at any loss to fill up a sheet I hope by this time that you are quite recovered I hope it dose not leave any weakness about you I am afraid for the eugo its a trouble that most people are subject to with the change of climate you will not be so hardy again for a while
We were very glad when you got the change to Muritybury (or Muritzhurg ?) (Muritzburg nr Durban ie Pietermaritzburg known as Maritzburg PMB) but we see by the peapers that you must be back to Durban again it apears to be a very buisness place and the other place to its astonishing to see the order that is kept.
Davis & Sons must have a very great deal of busnefs apearinely they deal in everything I hope that you are able for your work now and on full time it just take the long month to go & come you post on the 8 we get it on the 8 or 9.
You may be very glad that you are a good distance from the War it is a great paity that they cannot agree better. Will McLagan has been removed to a place within three hours march from the seat of war Turkstadt its a new place not very many inhabitants in it and thire are a number of them away to war just as he went they are liable to be drawn after three months resident he likes it very well if things were in a settled way buisnefs would go on better.
This is Christmas week we and we have a very heavie storm of snow for this last eight days and it is still faling. I have just got the term about over thire is a little to do yet thire is always some black sheep thire is three days of a bizare in the Hall this week in aide of the working boys & girls new Hall we are glad that we are not doing anything in it its a great deal of bothere I will go to morrow and see it opened by Donald Currie MP, you will see it if alls well in the next weeks peaper I think you get all the news but you have never said yet if you got a letter or peper,

We had Meggar in last week asking us out to spend our Christnemus but it is too cold to go to yon quarter I think the railway will soon go on to Comrie and it will be more convenent then - you must let us know what kind of a Christnemas and New Year you have had and what kind of weather you have all the Minsters lectured last Sabath on temperance but it was such a stormy day the churchs were very badly attended.
I am sorry to let you know that the youngest Mifs Chaplan is dead three weeks agoo she has been ill for six months. You will see Provst Sideys death, in the pepers I must draw to a close I hope you are enjoying the blissing of good health we never value it before we want it I hope you live sober and in the fear of God and that will make you happy I hope the blessing of God will ever be with you is the wish of your Affect Mother
M. Morison

Image: 109a 110a & 111a
55 High Street, Perth.
February 21st, 1881
Monday morning.
My Dear John
I take the pleasure of writing you a short letter with this mail; as I know you'll always wish for something as the steamer comes in. We had a nice letter from you a fortnight past, and we were happy to see by it that you were well. You say you're not so busy just now. You wont object when its so oppressively warm. I hope you have a stated wage that does not decrease with shorter hours but that you are paid for extra time.
I am sure the ware does not good to trade. I wish it were over. I was up in John Henderson's last night & he was saying he thought the war was about over.
If you could keep a large force of soldiers always out with it might prevent their rebelling & rising so often. I'm afraid the fire wont go out; but just wane to burst out anew when occasion offers.
I had a letter from Jessie last week. She is still in Tunny, the Photographer's (James Good Tunny, 93 Princes Street, Edinburgh, Photographer late 1800s). I think its just wasting her time; but I'll not say anything. Last summer, when here she said she would like to be a teacher in Perth, but I could'nt be bothered with her; though I think they might have trained her for it. It is the most remunerative business for a lady.
I hear that no more girls are to be taken in to the telegraph. They got splendid wages but it was doing man's or what ought to be, their work. All the rest of the folks in Edin. Are well and busy. We had a visit of Janet Drummond from Comrie (www.strathearn.com/st comrie). The new church is to be opened nigh month.
If it were at all seasonable weather I'd go; but there's no improvement in that way. Last week we thought we were in for spring weather but to-day the ground is covered with snow & is still very cold. There are a great many sufferers from the severity of the weather. Mother had a sad time last week with her pipes. She got soaked on Saturday night trying to batter together the back pipe as we could'nt get it turned of with the ice, & the next morning by four a.m., a policeman and waterman were at us with another burst. The ground having been closed over it and mended within a few hours it burst a yd. further along. The ground had just to be undone again. It was very provoking. The plumber is just heating his bolt to mend another while I write this.
It's the only topic here "the water. Many have not had it for months now. The Hendersons get theirs from behind the Infirmary. There is really nothing new in the town just now. Everything seems at a stand-still.
I am always busy at school. It is tiresome work just now. They are so irregular. On an average about half of them are absent.
We are busy practising the Messiah for the opening of the new Hall. It is the only sensational thing in town just now. I had a letter from Mrs. McEwan. She is very feeble poor body.
Monday Evening,
I've just got home and had tea.
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Image 110
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55 High Street, Perth.
February 21st, 1881
We have recd. Two papers and Xmas number of Witness along with letter which of course we always enjoy. Mother feels very happy to know that you have comfortable "diggings" and as she says, can make yourself at home.
I was just wondering how you spend Sabbath I'm glad you told me. It seems like mother - country to talk of going to church but I'm gradually getting the idea shaken off me that you went to a barbarous, uncivilized land, which is really not so.
We have never sent you the Scotsman but once & that was last week for we thought Eliza would send them frequently. Jessie once mentioned having sent a paper. They might post them it is'nt like 6d. for a letter though they might certainly indulge in that sometimes too. You have really done well to clear off your debts so soon. It will make your mind easy. I was afraid your passage money would'nt be paid for a long time; but when its its [sic] not to do again like taking a wife John. I don't think you'll have more than one youre so long in getting the first. You know immediately you think of it you must tell me As part of yourself. But you'll have to wait till you've been a year out and get some providing. Fancy, John you will soon have been a year away. I was just thinking it is a year since the first of March since we were at Auchterarden (Auchterarder) www.strathearn.com/st auchterarder. At that time how different our prospects were, and how opposite our future has turned out. You expected to be near home and I (fickle as ever) thought of being from home.
When I came home at 4 to-night, was'nt I surprised to see Mr. Milne in. It is two years past since he was in our house. A long time for a minister! Mrs Milne was telling every body immediately it was settled.
Well, John, I don't think I can muster any startling news for you now I must wait for another fortnight.
I have just been paying you a visit for an hour and had a chat with you. Now I must bid you good-bye come home to thistle close and study my object lesson subject - the eye - to be delivered to-morrow.
Accept our united love and thoughts.
I remain, Your Affecte. Sister
Annie.
P.S. The McLagans had a letter from Willie to-day from Tarkastadt (Tarkastad is a small town in the province of in Eastern Cape in South Africa) - He tells them his name is down in the list now to be drawn when the next enforcement is wanted, but not to be dismayed for he's quite confident the bank will provide a substitute.
M.A. Morison.
Tuesday night.
Have just recd. A load of papers this morning. I think they deliver letters first and with the next mail the papers. We frequently get them a post between. You pay a great deal for postage would require, I think to make a contract with Government for a reduction. The war, I think, will soon be over and the papers wont be so interesting.
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Image 111
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55 High Street, Perth.
February 21st, 1881.
I would just send as much as they'll let you get for 1d. Mother does nothing in the evening but read Durban news, but I dont know when she'll devour the lot we got to-day. I hope you get the Journal & Friend clear to hand. The latter is'nt registered. It would'nt be worth sending to pay book post. Let us know if you have to pay extra for it.
To-night with the five p.m. post I had a nice letter from Bella, and oh such a beautiful box of hot-house flowers. It was very kind of her to send them. She is well & happy. I must answer her kind letter soon.
M.A.M.
We just got your photos to-day from John Henderson. I suppose you don't want one.

Image: 112a 113a
55 High Street, Perth.
March 14th, 1881.
My Dear John,
I have the pleasure of writing you a few lines, hoping they will find you well as leaves us both I'm happy to say. Notwithstanding the winter we've had, Mother has been very well indeed. I'm not going to expatiate on the dreadful weather. I did so in my last though I think after it was penned the worst had to come. Suffice it, to say, that I, & many older, never experienced the same.
I suppose you have autumn now, & no doubt, your farmers are reaping the yellow grain while ours are sowing the seed. Have you had any good walks yet. It is rather risky, when the country is so disturbed to venture out beyond the boundaries.
We had a whole week's news from you last week. It is indeed very kind in you to send us the papers, but, as I said in my last which you will have to hand, the revenue have too much off their stamps, and you may just send as much as you can get sent for 1d. unless on special occasions.
You have no idea how much Mother reads and retains in her mind too. Your papers are certainly not lost upon her. Their "sweetness is not wasted in the desert air". I am wearing to hear from you after the Majuba disaster . How sad the defeat, but worse I think the loss of Sir George Colley. Poor man; he little thought his race was so soon to be run. I remember he just went out the month after you. However rich, however great, All must fall. (In early February 1881 Major General Sir George Colley, the British High Commissioner for South East Africa, lay at Newcastle in Natal ready to move up the road towards the Transvaal where the Boers were in revolt against British rule.)
There is quite an excitement here now before the English get back their position, but it is true we at home here never realized the danger till the defeat was accomplished. I'm afraid our Gladstone Govt. is rather tardy in action.
Complaints are being made. Some broach a dissolution very soon, and Tories raised to the Dizzy seat of power. Beaconsfield anticipates as much himself.
I was trying to remember what I told you in my last so as not to repeat the same here but I wont go back to a retrospect of more than a week and so prevent repitition.
Busy at school looking through spring spectables to Vacations about 13 weeks from now!!! Mother busy letting her houses very perplexing. Nearly the whole close to let.
The opening of the new Hall is quite a sensation. I'll be able to give you all the news of it also, of our Soiree, in my next letter to you. On Friday night I was out at the General Prison, at a treat given to the prisoners in the Lunatic Dept. Donald Farquharson was out with his pipes. Mr. & Mrs. Hewat of the Watergate were also there also the Mifses Chaplin asking kindly for you.
It was something new. They all behaved well & seemed to enjoy themselves. Of course they were all presentable. About one half of them are ill, insane just now but there would be about 30 there at the treat.
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55 High Street, Perth.
March 14th, 1881.
My Dear John, I am very happy to see by your letters that you are quite recovered and fell strong people here say one is better to take it soone after they goo out. I have no doubt it wase not very easey for you but I hope by this time you have got round it all and have plenty of money in your pocket and plenty of employment. I hope that you feel comfortable are they Scotch people that you lodge with? one would think to read the advertisements that things were as cheap as here and wonder how lodgings are so dear. I am glad you value a comfortable lodging although it is a little more don't grudge it. I am told some places are very bad with bugs. We have had a very sore winter of it here with storm I have taken care not to go much out and have kept very well but thire is a great many people could not get worked with frost I think it is away now you will see the particulars in the peapers. I am taken up with the Housess a good deal gust now.
I am very gland that you feal pleashure in going to Church it will remind you of home and the Lords day. I hope you have a kind Minster. I had a visit of Mr. Milne the very day we got your last letter he asked ver kindly for you, we enjoy a read of your peapers very much but we are looking for a letter now every day you know, its very different a few lines from yourself and I think you could give us a longer epistle sometimes. I am very sory that the country is in such a state but I hope that they will soon come to a settlement it will I belive make things scarce and dear I feel very sory to heare of such unfortunate engagements. It must be very bad for the country is it still summer with you I think you have a great deal of rain how are you getting on for cloaths. Have you got any white linens or cotton socks, have you any strawberries or aples gowing about you, its gust to far or I would come and see you. I must finish. May God Bliss you and guide you and keep you wherevere you are
from your Afect Mother
M. Morison
We had a letter from Aunt Nancy. She says she thinks she'll sell off and go to Glasgow as theire's always plenty of work there. A brilliant idea for a 75 yr. old is'nt it?
I've just had a letter fhis morning from Peter Strachan. He wishes to be kindly remembered to you. There was a bit shamrock in his letter. The above is the prevailing flower* here just now. I was afraid a real one would fade. Now, John, space is small. I must will up what remains with loads of love and wishes.
You may think something of this letter I can tell you no one else can boast of a letter from Mother. You will see from it she does'nt write much. Hoping to hear from you soon.
I remain, Your Loving Sister, Annie.
* Drawing of a snowdrop.

Image 114a 115a
55 High Street, Perth.
March 28th, 1881.
Monday Morning.
My Dear John,
We had the expected letter from you on Saturday last (26th March). I wrote you last week along with Mother, but I cannot lose a mail without clearing myself, there were so many accusations against me.
I cant understand which of the postal officials are to blame, but we have'nt missed sending your papers regularly this year. I have send four letters to you. This is the fifth since Janry.1. It is very provoking, a disappointment on both sides. We sent some extra papers also - the Inverness Chronicle - Scotsman, - and a number of the Friend, along with the weekly journal.
I would have sent the monthly part but it would cost 3d. (book post) to take it. I thought that rather too much (it is'nt worth), but if you got the journal & it as we sent them together without paying extra (you will let us know and we'll continue sending them.
I trust that by the time this arrives that you have had all my (eight) pages to hand, and also the papers. Don't think for a moment that we don't write for every mail we think of it, and though we don't get a letter when we expect it from you we don't despair, and there's always one on the road.
I wish I could give you the exact dates when I sent them away then you could see if the mails come in. I'll note down the date when I send my letters after this.
In the paper I send with this you'll have an account of our Soiree on Thursday night. I enjoyed it very much. On Friday night the new Hall was opened. It was a great success. After the concert about a dozen of us adjourned to Mrs. J. Henderson's (Jnr.) and celebrated the opening by dancing the song.
It was a great event in Perth. Mother was at the Concert!!!
By the time this reaches you, you will have heard all about the dreadful fire of the Opera House in Nice. By which Mr. Kennedy lost two daughters & a son. (Opera House fire 23 Mar 1881 caused by gas lamp 70 die) (David Kennedy, "The Scottish Singer" born Perth) (With James & John and two younger daughters, Kate and Lizzie, he toured Scotland until Spring 1881 when James, Kate & young Lizzie went to Italy to resume their studies with Signor Lamperti. All three died in a fire in the opera house in Nice)
Also you will know of Mr. Peddie's death, it is very sad. That's two in your office who have received a sad blow and sustained a great loss. My Dear John you could afford to laugh over the false result of your illness which reached Edin. We should be very grateful that you recovered and are so well now. (As long as I remember to tell you, your papers with 3 stamps come all safe without a word. I think it's a great deal too much I mind of getting one paper from you without a stamp at all & nothing was said about it, but it would'nt do to risk it often.
You had forgotten to enclose your laundress' bill but you might do so in your next.
With this or next mail I'll try & get an Inverness Chronicle posted to you. George King has been compelled to resign his Managership on account of bad health. Is'nt it sad when he had just got to the top of the tree. In some of my former letters I told you of him & the new paper. I hope you got it all right. Old Mrs. Squire, the Deacon's wife, is dead & was buried yesterday - (Monday).
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55 High Street, Perth.
March 28th, 1881.
Mother's bids me tell you she's glad Peace is proclaimed but I can tell you its not a satisfactory ending. They'll soon be burning the Premier's Efigy here too I think - People are so angry with such a disgraceful ending.
I saw in the Scotsman the other day that if peace were made, those in Natal would likely sell out & leave as there would be little hope of progress when the Boers would have authority.
I had a letter last week from Edin. I'll enclose it. To-morrow week we get our Sacramental Holidays. I'm not going away from home cant afford to. I don't think Mother ever had such a roguish set as she has just now. I wish she had her rents from them.
Now My dear John I've given you all my news.
Have'nt I done very well after writing you eight pages last week.
Best love from Mother & myself.
I remain, Your loving Sister
Annie Morison.
P.S. If it were'nt for the weight I'd use other papers I hate this. My pen sticks into it every little bit. Please excuse it. M.A.M.

Image 116a, 117a
Perth, 55 High St.
May 16th, 1881
My Dear John,
I take the pleasure of penning a bit of my diary to you. My last was dated April 27th & the following week, on May 4th we received a letter from you. A very nice, cheering letter, one to do a body's heart good. I think you are just beginning to know the good that's done and can be done by the transmission of good news. Mother and I were so happy and thankful that you've got over the rocks and quicksands, and are sailing smoothly along. I wish I could make the same assertion. I think I'm in the rapids & with breakers ahead.
But this is a digression. You may designate an introduction to my missive. I think I'll find enough to fill my allotted 2 sheets without noticing what you will find in the local gazettes.
Last Friday night, I was at a party at Mrs Andersons, King Street on the occasion of John's leaving for Auckland, New Zealand. There are 13 from Perth going.
Wytlock, the Missionary, with the four members of his family. £200 were collected to send him out. I suppose he's to continue the same calling out there. Three girls Whitelaw, cousins to Mr. Whitelaw, Durban (Their father mother & family are out already.) Four Douglas Father Mother sister & brother. The first & last were in Singer's Machine Shop.
Perhaps you may know them. These, with John Anderson make up the thirteen. They sail on the 26th inst. In the "Hermione". I hope J.A. will get stronger mentally. He's been a great bore to his mother.
I asked him what he was to be about & he answered "That remains to be seen." Petty response for a fellow 25 yrs. of age. He had a better chance here than very many have. He is going to the Peacocks when he lands - Mrs. Bryson's friends. Last Monday, we had a visit from Peter McAllum, Mrs. McEwans nephew, who came home from Melbourne a month ago, having been 23 yrs. out. He has a little trouble in getting possession of his mother's property. He was giving us an idea of his life. You must be in an Eden compared to the gold-diggings where he was. Its all chance, he says, he succeeded well at first in his speculations but ultimately lost most of the money he had made by working poor ground. I don't think he's brought much home with him. He came the overland route by Suez. If he had everything arranged, I believe he can spend the remainder of his days pretty comfortable in Comrie.
May 17th, Tuesday -
Whitsunday Term over. Mother had quite a lot to do. There were exactly a round dozen removing, most of them very doubtful tenants, however, they all paid their rents before removing with one exception when 25/- is awanting. However I think she may get that "One bird in the hand is worth two in the bush". It is'nt easy getting anything when they're away.
The houses are all let and occupied again. It's a great worry. I sincerely wish that Mother had a nice wee house in a good situation & then she might sell the Close, I would without the slightest grudge. It think it would be quite a warrantable action. What do you think?
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Perth, 55 High St.
May 16th, 1881.
Mrs Stalker's step-mother dies at Hamilton (means Glasgow 8th . . .) a week ago. Our summer vacation will soon be here. I'm not going back to Sharp's E. Institution again. They could'nt give me more money. They're reducing the staff of teachers for want of funds. I'm leaving quite amicably though. Mr. Peddie wishes to recommend me to Mifs. Simpson, Barossa Place. She has the best boarding school in Perth.
Indeed I should like to have a trial out of Perth. It is a narrow-minded little place, though I've been very well treated in it. Jane Downie goes on Saturday to Sheffield as Governess in a first-class House, where she gets languages from eminent Masters & pays £25 of a Premium. It's a good change for her - the Society she will be in. That's what I would like better than anything. Certain I wont remain at home doing nothing. I could'nt endure it.
Last night I had a letter from Bella. She's a dear good girl. Such a nice letter she gives me. Her brother's wife's got twin boys last week, up at feanfield. We had a letter last week from Eliza. They're removing to the top-storey of the same house this term.
How is Tom Peddie & the others that went out with you getting on?
Have you made a scrap-book for your views yet? It ought to be a very pretty one. If I were you I would buy a nice one & insert them.
How's your clothes wearing? Have you had to buy any more yet? I suppose the ink was all safe in your trunk was it? I've often thought of it.
Now, my dear John, I must conclude. Accept Mother's, mine, and your friend's best wishes. Hoping this will find you well and happy.
I remain, Your Loving Sister,
Mary Anne Morison.

Image 118a 119a
55 High Street, Perth.
June 1881.
My Dear John,
Although it is Sabbath forenoon, I take pleasure in writing you a few lines. I have'nt the best of news. Since this day week, Mother has been very ill with Inflammation. The Doctor has been here every day but one. She is very weak, not able to sit up in bed, but the Dr. thinks her much improved, and she thinks herself that she has got the turn.
I had to stay at home and be nurse. All are busy at school finishing up before the Examination on
Thursday, 30th June, so it was rather a bad time for me; but all were very kind, some of them down every day seeing how Mother was.
I think its been about her for some time, she has'nt been strong at all, and the worry she has with these tenants increased it. There's somebody looking after the Close, and I think it will soon be advertised for sale.
There is quite a sensation in Scholastic Circles about the Teachers for the Perth Academy. A Rector & Mathematical wanted. There are a great many applications for the two vacancies.
That does'nt interest me so much, but after electing them, they (the School Board) propose having lady teachers for the younger classes & the sewing. The want of a Female Mistress in the Academy has been very much felt. They have'nt definitely fixed as to her requirements & what her duties will be. The salary is to be £90.
If the situation were something like what Mifs Forbes has, I should apply for it. It was she who told me of it at first else I should not have known until it was advertised which will probably be next week. She pressed me to get all the influence I could to bear up my Testimonials which I am getting ready. There's no harm in trying but I don't expect to be successful. Very reasonable - They prefer an older lady. Another of our Sharp's teachers Mifs Keiller is applying. (Sharp's Institute founded 1860, later amalgamated with Perth Academy)
Strange to be doing so before it is made public, but some never leave a stone unturned to attain their aim. I should be delighted & would try to make myself worthy of it if I got it. Then I would'nt be afraid to sell the Close & get to a nice comfortable house where Ma could have peace & comfort in her old age. This is my Castle in the Air I've been building.
Alas! Only to vanish into thin air, I doubt. I'm just going to give ma some beef-tea, & then I would like to go across to the sermon to the children in the afternoon, so will supplement this after-ds.
Monday Afternoon.
Dr. called, quite pleased. Ma a little better - has got to the sofa quite exhausted but in a fair way to recovery. I trust she will soon gather strength and that by the time you receive this, that she will be climbing the hills round Comrie, or taking the air some place.
No doubt, after you read this you'll be wearing for the next mail, but I wont write for a fortnight, and then I'll have more to tell you.
Of course, you would see Wm. Richardson the Grocer's death in the papers. Only 47 yrs. of age. I understand the business is to be sold. Dingwall is taking a stock for the Trustees.
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55 High Street, Perth.
June 1881
I hope you are always well and strong have good companions and comfortable lodgings?
Tell us when you write. Are you still faithful to Bella? She sent me such a lovely box of flowers on Tuesday. It would do one good, a sight of them. Mrs McLagan called on Saturday. Willie has been appointed Manager of the Bank in Tartrastadt. £300 a year. It's a responsible post & in an outlandish country I hope he will succeed.
Davie McGregor, (The Postmaster's son) and his Canadian wife arrived here last week for a three months holiday. He is looking pretty well. John and Mary Anne called last night. They were asking for you.
We expect to have a letter from you this week & I hope we wont be disappointed. Always write regularly to us for we do so to you. Though they may take longer to reach you. Yours just take exactly a month. William Thomson & Aggie have been up to-day, - this being the Dundee Holidays. They are looking well. Aggie told me to tell you she was asking for Nellie.
Wednesday.
Now Mother is much improved & I'm going to school. She is able to be up all afternoon and takes her meat pretty well. She has got over it & I think will soon be back to her usual again. We expect Uncle Joseph & Auntie Agnes up to-day or to-morrow, but I must finish this now to be in time for the Mail. I hope you are well & happy, also your companions in the office. We enjoy the 2 papers you send weekly very much. Please don't omit them.
Now, John, Mother unites with me in sending our best love.
I remain,
Your Loving Sister,
Mary Anne Morison.
P.S.
Had another letter from Peter Strachan wishing me across in the summer. He is very patient. He trusts I wont refuse this time.
I give you all my confidential bits John (vice versa) M.A.M.
P.S. No. 2.
Joseph & Agnes are up to-day - Both looking well. Uncle a little failed but always jolly. Been at school - very busy - just going back - 2 p.m.
Yours M.A.M.

Image 120a 121a
55 High Street, Perth.
19th July, 1881.
My Dear John,
I am a week later than I promised which delay I hope you will excuse.
I'm happy to be able to tell you, Mother is quite better now, and back to her ordinary way which we ought all to be very thankful for.
She would be much the stronger of a change of air and scene, but we are not going to Comrie till August. We were both down with the boat to Dundee on Friday. The weather was splendid and we had a delightful sail. This week being the Glasgow Holiday a great many folks are tripping about.
Have you favoured Uncle Joseph with a few lines since you went to Natal? He is quite pleased with the papers you send him and in return he is very kind sending you a paper now and then. We had a letter from Aunt Nancy again. Has removed to Margaret Pl. Ruthereiston (Ruthereiston, Aberdeen). She's a very discontented lady. Phobie Anderson wrote us the other day, Saturday being the Tradesman's Trip, she would perhaps have been taking a trip to Perth but her Mother, poor body, has had a shock of paralysis. She has recovered to far as be able to go through the house with difficulty, but of course she'll never be better so Phobie cant leave her for long. She is still in the shop for she cant afford to want the wage.
There is nothing very stirring in Perth just now, most of the people being away either to the Country or the sea-side. The Examinations in Edinburgh commence this week. I should like to see some of them. I'm going across this afternoon (Tuesday) and will stay for a few days.
The situation in the Perth Academy has been advertised and I have applied. I have no idea if I may be fortunate in securing it, some suppose my youth may be against me. I got very good Testimonials, nine in number, and excellent (Mifs Forbes says) in quality. But that's not all that's wanted, Influence is the thing. I have some of that seasoning, but perhaps not enough. I was told last night by Mr. Lowan Advertiser office, a member of the Board, that it would be three weeks before it would be decided.
I was in Shaw, the Baker's, on Saturday - they were kindly asking for you. Mrs. Shaw told me to tell you that her brother has passed for 1st Mate. He tried the examination in Leith. The Lochshelly (or something she called the ship he was in before) has left for Bombay again. & he is looking out for a place in another as 1st Mate.
We have been very much disappointed not hearing from you, this is the sixth week now. Mother & I sincerely trust you are well and able to be at your work. How much we do weary when a mail passes that we expect a few lines with & none comes. We look for a one every three weeks or a month at the latest. I don't think since you went away that I've been longer than three weeks regularly in writing to you. We had no papers last week from you, and since then we have been very anxious. Mother is quite put about thinking something is wrong.
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55 High Street, Perth.
19th July, 1881.
I hope we may soon have a sight of your writing.
I think I have given you most all of my news now I must close. Next one I'll give you an account of my visit to our Modern Athens. (Edinburgh is whimsically referred to as the "Athens of the North")
Our united love and prayers for you.
We remain, Your effecte Mother & Sister.
Mary Anne Morison
-----
Wednesday, 20th July.
My Dear John
I am very much disappointed that I have not got any peaper or letter from you to day no pepers last week M Ann is away to Edinburgh yesterday I have gust been in at Richardson the Grocers he is dead and buried three weeks ago the buisnesf is sold to too (?two) from Alowa he was laid up for six months ulcers in the stomach
I am trying to sell the close just now I do not know if I will succeed that will be a bit for the next letter the 10th of Agust [sic] is the sale day. I have a tennent he is a mechen mann in the Advertizer Office he appears to be very hard up himself and they had only four hours work in the office in the day last week for want of peaper if they had it forward thire is plenty of work for eighteen month Mr. Sanson says the young S is a forman the men don't like him
I think you are a little diealetry [sic] in writing what you should not be
Will McLagans letters always comes every week and a peper a very small one it cost a sixpence the first one that was printed was gust like a tract but it is getting better, he has got in to be the Manager - 350 and a house and servant, he keeps a horse and gets on very well with the Boors gust in the midst of them. I must conclude I hope your keeping your health well and always buise [sic] I will be looking for the post to morow [sic]
May God grant you grace and keep you from the evil temptations of the world. I am glad that you go to Church although you to be on duty on Sabath thire is always something we would like better at home and abroad no more but I remain your affectionate Mother, M Morison

Image 122a, 123a
Perth. 55 High St.
9th August, 1881.
My Dear Brother,
We had a letter yesterday from you. It was dated July 11th. How glad we were to see your handwriting again. It is nearly ten weeks I think since we had a line from you before. Perhaps one may have gone a missing. Since Xmas I have written on an average every three weeks, and I hope you have got every one. I should be very much provoked if one had lost its way to you.
In your missive you tell us you have'nt had perfect health. It is one of the greatest blessings one can have and I hope it will be granted to you.
I suppose if you go further South, the climate is more temperate, & like that of this country.
I hope you will get into a good office if you go to Pt. Elizabeth, which appears to be a very nice place. I'm sorry Durban does'nt agree with you. I'm sorry to tell you that I've lost the situation I told you of. A Mifs Duncanson from Gillespies' School Edinburgh, has been the successful candidate. I did all I could to secure it, but she is more advanced than I, & is certificated. I must try and get some private teaching. I cant afford to be idle, and there are no situations in schools here. You see, we cant get all our wishes gratified, but we must do our best, to bear a disappointment. I have been telling you in my letters we were to sell the Close but you did'nt mention it in any of your.
It was sold last Wednesday privately to a Mr McNaughton Inverardroch, Crianlarich, a son of the Draper, George St., Perth. I sent you a paper last week perhaps you would notice it. I was too late for the mail to send a letter. That is only half the business done. I wish we were settled now as to investing it, and had a house to go into. The transfer of the Property is not * till Martinmas, 11th Novr (St. Martins Day the feast day of Martin of Tours, who started out as a Roman soldier). So we have three months to arrange. If we were removed, had a sure investment made, and all settle, I'm sure Mother would be easier, and would not regret the step taken.
She has had by far too much worry, and I think she deserves a little peace and pleasure now as the fruit of her labours.
What do you think of the Transaction? I will hope for an answer to this letter & these questions. I had hoped you would give us your opinion when I first proposed it, but I was disappointed.
Almost every body here is building but I don't think we will.
(letter not complete - continued on letters marked 'after Aug 1881)
martinmas - half yearly moveable term

Image 123a
after Aug 1881
no first page ?continued from 9 Aug 1881
Now, John, I think I have given you all my private news. You don't favour me with any of yours I'm sorry.
The Town is quiet just now. The weather is drier, getting colder & altogether having a harvest appearance.
We are going to Comrie in the end of the week, for a few days we are much later than usual, but Ma'll be the better of the change I hope. I must try & be good to her. I have never known one so good to me; or any of us. John, I believe your Bella would be if you would let her.
Mr. Stalker's away to Rotterdam for a holiday. The Scobies are here.
We had a call from Duncan Ferguson of Meiggar on Friday. He was asking kindly for you. Jenny McLagan (Mrs. Gorrie) got a son last week. All the new aunties & uncles are quite delighted with their new relation.
Now, my dear John, Ma's to favour you with a few lines so I will conclude. Now don't be so long in writing again like a good boy. I shall always (D.C.) write at least every 4th mail.
Hoping this will find you happy & free from all sores.
I am, Your Loving Sister,
Mary Anne Morison.
Noticed Peddies name as Prizeman again.
Kind wishes.
- - - -
My Dear John we received your letter last week we were wearing very much to hear from you I am sory to see by it that you have got bad legs but thire was a lady told us that it is a thing that is customery in Durban I hope that you will soon get better of them it's a very uneasie thing to have about you but it is a great blessing that your health is good I hope that you will not have to leave the place now when you are getting into the way of it as every place is different we are getting very well aquant ourselves reading the peapers although you don't give us much in your letters we can form an idea that it is a thorow buisnefs place and a person can live in it. the people here do not think Government has made a good settlement. I have sold the Clse and am to see about some new property that I think I wont have so much trouble with I doo not know where it will be yet.
we had a viset of Henry & Elisa and the too young ones last week they are all very well I am very glad we are going to Comrie on Tuesday the harvest is to be very late we have so little sunshine its about three month since we had a letter from you I think you might favour us with a few lines oftner I hope that you will be well before you get this and we will be glad to hear
I hope the blessing of God will be with you I remain your
Affect Mother
M. Morison

Image 124, 125
55 High Street, Perth.
14th Septr. 1881.
Wednesday, noon.
Do write soon.
My Dear Brother,
Just a few lines before post time, and to be brief without an introduction, continue my budget which I wrote last. Since then, Mother & I were across in Edinburgh for the Review (Royal Review 25 Aug 1881 at Edinburgh) & stayed a week. Of course, from the papers, you would guess what kind of a holiday it was. We came home on the Friday night, and next day, Sammy Craigie's flat & attics were sold (you would see his death some time ago in the papers)
Mother was fortunate in being the only bidder so our house very probably after November will be 6 Charlotte Street.
The Thursday following we went to Comrie. Poor Mrs. McEwan was wearied expecting us all summer; Though very frail, she is wonderfully well and happy when we were there. Peter McAllum is lodging with her. Thou so near a relation as son he does'nt find it so easy to get possession of his mother's property.
All the folks were asking kindly for you.
When we came home on Friday your dear letter was waiting us here. It had just come that day. Mrs. Young forwarded any letters that came when we were away so we had them all right.
A box came in the beginning of the week from Helensburgh. She did'nt know it had perishable goods in it beautiful hothouse flowers & ferns.
I was very sorry about them the ferns would'nt press & the flowers were done. It is very kind of Bella to send them. That reminds me of something you said in your letter about answering all my many questions in three pages, but you next time must answer the rest of the fourth. You never tell me what your thinking of taking up a house & getting a housewife. Do you ever go out in the fields & gather "gowans" as here? What kinds of flowers have you? Now, John, this will help you to fill up any vacant space you may have in your answer to this note. Am not I very kind!
We had a letter to-day from Jessie. Poor lassie! She has'nt been very well, has been at home & her situation filled up. She has'nt been in Perth this year so when she
(Pages 1-4 above)
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recovers sufficiently she will come for a few days.
We were just remembering next Monday (19th) is your Birthday. My Dear John, I hope you will have a happy one and though you get this after it is passed the good wishes will be all the same. Wishing you many happy returns of the day. I intended to have sent a card to you but it requires to be away before the event a month & I never realize that. The Town's full of folks to the Conference this week.
I have'nt got any teaching yet but you know "Hope springs eternal in the human breast", so I may get it yet. I'm glad your legs are all right now. Do take care of yourself against colds in these chilly nights. They are so treacherous when one is not aware. Prevention is better than cure. No my dear John, I must try next time to condense my natter in three pages as you say "Multum in parvo" (latin - much in little). Will be my motto if possible in the future.
Mother is'nt just very strong.
Shaw, the Baker, is always asking for you kindly every time we see him.
I was down on Saturday afternoon at Uncle Jos. & Agnes'. Joseph's delighted with the paper & would likewise value a letter. You might drop him one & he'd give you an answer. You know he can write a splendid letter.
Now John our united love & thoughts to you. I am Your dear Sister
Mary Anne Morison.

Image 126, 127
55 High Street, Perth.
Oct 5th, 1881.
My Dear John,
I take great pleasure in writing you a few lines trusting you are in as good health and spirits as when we recd. your last "billet doux". (French for Sweet Note or Short Note)
We are all in our ordinary way here for which we shd. both be thankful.
Jessie, poor thing has never got to Perth this year. She had a relapse, & now I'm afraid its too far on in the season to take a change of air. October already & like it too, cold & chilly with the harvest in some places not completed yet.
How soon time flies. Schools are open & filled & the town has sunk back into its winter sleep, to be broken perhaps by some ball as last week. Did you notice my name flourishing there? I enjoyed it very well. The hall was nicely decorated with Masonic emblems, tartan & deer's antlers in honour of the Ear de Breadalbane. I got into bed 6 a.m. !!!
On Thursday I had the pleasure of hearing Lims Reeves - his farewell appearance - Perhaps you've heard him when in the old country. It was a first class concert - His voice is much worn now. Father & son are very much alike Italian looking, & style of vocalisation similar.
Then we had the Races last week. I did'nt see much of them. I don't care for them. If all's well, next year, we'll see them from our windows in Charlotte St. Mr. Scott, joiner, has put in two oriel windows in the front two rooms and it is a splendid improvement. You have no idea of the view we have across to the Bowling Green with the others. So you see John I'm going to the Garret. Wont you wear a green ribbon in sympathy with me.
After Mr. Stalker paints & papers it, I'm sure we'll have a neat, cosy, little house to go to. What do you think John? Of course we may get a better yet but I think, if so, it will let easily. I think the soman in the flat will remain. I hope so. Her rent is £18. We wont begin to flit till Novr. What an eruption it will be! As good as an earthquake in Comrie. I shall tell you all about it as we proceed.
I hope you like your home. Are you still renting rooms! Mother was just wondering what light you have. Parafin or candle? Tell us.
I'm glad Mother's mind will be a little at rest now that she has invested her money. She has got the big house in Queen St. Craigie, which belonged to Mr Morrison Joiner. There are six families in it, & its in splendid order. Nothing wanting. I hope the same tenants will remain. You'll remember of the house, do you?
Mary Banks, Mr. Leitch etc live in it. It has been for sale for some time £1800 was the value put upon it but Ma got it at her last offer £1650. It was sold to clear off [sic] debt. The rental is £106 and when expenses come off that I think we'll have about £80 of an income. Of course it is'nt much & it went increase but I don't know how more could have been made. Money is very cheap just now. 4¼ is all you'll get just now per cent.
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Image 127
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55 High Street, Perth.
Oct 5th, 1881.
I have'nt got work yet. I have an advertisement in this week's papers. I hope it may be fruitful of something.
We had Bella McLaren spending Friday afternoon with us. She has had a few days holiday and is looking very well. I need'nt tell you any more for I suppose she'll give you all her news (??). She brought me a nice little box of Helensburgh views.
What a sad affair that was the loss of the "Lenton". We got the Mercury yesterday with a full account of it. Well, John, it does make one think it might have been the vessel you went with as soon as it. We are'nt half thankful for all the dangers we escape.
You would notice the deaths of Mr. & Mifs Landeman. Their loss will be very much felt.
A Bazaar is to opened today for the extension of the Museum. A better one will be in Decr. For the Moncrieffe Memorial.
Have you ever got your photo taken since you went out to Afr.? Mother would like to have one. She speaks of it often. I was thinking I might get mine taken & send you one for a New-years souvenir. But you will be in time to answer this before I would send it away & tell me how I would send a large one. Now John I must conclude. Mothers best love to you. (She bids me tell you if you've got any loose cash send it here & she'll very soon invest it in property. A splendid proposal is'nt it, but I think if you have some you can make more of it where you are. How much have you?)
Best love to you John. Hoping for another long letter soon. I remain your dear sister,
Punch alias Mary Anne Morison.

Image 128, 129
55 High Street, Perth.
Oct 26, 1881
My Dear John,
We recd. a jolly long letter from you last week & I now hasten to answer it. You had posted it on your Birthday & we got it exactly a month after viz. 19th Octr.
How delighted Mother was as well as me, to see you so well & happy I've been telling every-body since that I may go to Durban yet if you go on flourishing as I sincerely trust you will. I would like very much. I'm out of my favourite employment - teaching - having advertised for the last three weeks & recd. no answers I must now just wait patiently which it is'nt easy to do as you know.
But somehow I always find enough to do, each day brings new duties, with it. I enjoy housework very much but then I like wages better. The Term is just about upon us. I don't know how we're to get on at all. The Attics are'nt ready for the painters yet. They've wasted a great deal of time in putting in the windows & the weather's been very wet as you would see by the papers.
Ma does'nt think she'll like living there at all no place but the street to go when we come out of the house. She's better here having the close to go in, but really the neighbours tenants are outrageous. It is'nt easy looking after them. I'm glad we're leaving them, & if we could manage, as you say, a cottage out a bit with a small green she would be better. It is very kind of you, John, to give us the rent & I hope we'll soon get some place. She says that if you would help her, she might perhaps get a house to buy, to live in by ourselves, and pay part of it just now.
You know, John, she would never like to pay rent now when she never did it before, so I wont ask her to, but we'll hope among us to help her to buy a house to live in. There are always plenty building & to sell. You would be surprised to see the Cherrybank road with villas. Ma's very fond of that direction. As for me, I'll be happy anywhere, but I would like her comfortable. She's had a terrible worry & she's not so strong now as she used to be. Sabbath last was our Sacrement. Mr Lennie, they say, has had a stroke & Mr. Gordon is very poorly. Dr. Roy is away altogether now to Cambridgeshire. Carr, the Baker, is an elder only by name. So we'll have to get a extra staff of elders to assist Mr. Milne.
It was very wet all the week & the churches on the Fast Day were better filled than might have been had it been a nice day. There has been nothing of interest to tell you since I last wrote I think. On Sabbath night we got a pretty start with a fire down the close but it turned out to be nothing but a chimney. The flames were enough to make one think it was the whole close. Ma was'nt able to go down the close, she fancied she smelt the wood in the stick-loft burning. It never rains but it pours, they say. The next night, when Ma was saying the Grace to our tea we had to stop in all - by some of the neighbours shouting what blazes! This was the smithy house-chimney on fire. We were indeed thankful for the rain for it drowned the sparks which fell on Richardson's paraffin oil cellar.
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Image 129
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55 High Street, Perth
Oct. 26, 1881
We had a note from Jessie the other day. They are all well. She's going to stay at home all winter. Johhny McLean has got into Pullars as a Clerk & is getting on very well. I was up seeing the McLagans last night. They were asking for you. Willie's got a horse. He has so far to go sometimes & no conveyance of any kind. Mrs. Anderson, King St. had her first letter from John on Sabbath. He's landed safe & well at Auckland, New Zealand, & intends I believe to continue what he was here - a commission-agent or Grocer.
Mrs. Torie McLagan has got a son a week ago. I enjoyed your letter very much indeed. I thought it just splendid about the wagon-travelling etc. & especially the swindling. There's nothing like looking after No.1. I'm beginning to learn that too. One mus'nt believe everything they hear but must judge for themselves. I hope to have more news for you next mail but somehow I've filled up my allotted space.
Now, our united best love & wishes, I remain your loving sister
Mary Anne Morison.
P.S. always receive papers regularly & enjoy them very much. John Henderson gets them to read from us. M.M.

Image 130,131
6 Charlotte Street, Perth.
January 22, 1882
My Dear John,
I take the pleasures of writing you a little billet - doux. I trust you are still keeping well and busy. We have'nt heard from you since Xmas week & we are looking for a letter this mail to tell us how you spent your New-Year for, of course it would be a holiday the whole world o'er. Sabbath was rather an incon . . . day. There's now four weeks of it gone already! The papers you'll see, are all remarking on the delightful mild weather we've had this year. I hope it will last, so pleasant.
I hope you have got a sample of the Scotsmans by this time. Really, John, its an awful packet every week to go through the P. Office. Mother had them folded in every conceivable fashion & at last divided them. Do you peruse them all & lend them to your friends? It is nice to have every day's to continue the thread of the narrative but don't you think we need'nt send the advt. Sheets Wed. & Saturday?? I noticed the same paper for six months was sold in Comrie for 5/6 so we must have got a bargain.
That minds me, Mrs. McEwan had a bad turn. I hope to get out to see her soon. We had Rev. James Wilson St. Leonards preaching to-day. Mrs. & Mfs Milne came home on Friday from London having been up for ten days purchasing the trousseau for the wonderful marriage in March. They're very busy. Mr. Scott, who used to be in Mill St., is now in Imrie's It took him three weeks to make a design for her furniture.
I was at a delightful concert of the Enterfsion (or Enterpion)? (?Interfusion) Society with the Glasgow Orchestra. I never heard instrumental music like it. Fancy 7/6 - 5/- - 4/- 2/6 the seats!!! It did'nt pay and they say they wont be in Perth again. It's a shame not to encourage them; for it is a great treat.
Of course, I did'nt pay for myself. You know, I could'nt afford it - but many in Perth might. A few nights after, Mifs Hopekirk, the noted pianist, was in the Hall & had an audience of only 35!!! The musical taste & talent is improving very much in Perth, but it is economically done, if possible. One's education is thought now to be sadly neglected if music does'nt form a principal item. I think it is elevating and does improve one's tastes. My John, you should join the Philharmonic Society. Do you ever think of it? Or are you a member, & not telling us till we see your name, as a Tenor Soloist in one of the coming recitals???
On Friday, I was at the N.U.J. (National Union of Journalists ?) Church at their first concert. I think they mean to collect for an organ. The singing was very fine, all the voices thoroughly cultivated to unlike our Choir. Oh, John, its worse than when you were in it. I think I shall join it & that would be a grand collapse on finale. The collection Friday night was only £27. I enclose the programmes of both concerts. Stalker & Boyd have got Loch Arve Hotel to paint just now & they have ½ doz. men away to it. It's a splendid job & will last 3 months at least. Duncan & Fox Boyd (witness at Jessie - Duncan Stalkers marriage) are both at it. It's a very outlandish place just now.
Last week we made our first call to our Queen Street tenants. All of them received us very kindly, seemed quite pleased to remain. You would be delighted to see how nicely they keep their houses. We are very thankful there's to be no removals.
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Image 131
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6 Charlotte Street, Perth.
January 22, 1882
Poor man, Mr Morrison, from whom we bought the house, has failed miserable. I don't know whats to become of him. It was just last week.
Mother also went downstairs to Mrs. Cairnclose. She's a cantankerous old lady & her daughter in perjint? old maid. They did'nt seem so well pleased & did'nt say whether they'd stay or flit. But they'll better soon make up their minds. We would be glad if they would remain for some time. So that's the way our business goes on John.
There was an Advertisement in the papers for a Governess. I applied but got no answer. It was in about three weeks after my answer. The (Chisholms North Bank) must be ill to please. I seem doomed not to get my favourite employment. I think I must accept a different situation. ___?____?__
We've just got in the Friend in time. It seems to be a nice number.
Write soon John. Never be longer than three weeks or a month; we weary for a few lines however few
I think I've given you the best of our news. We're always hearing from Edin. Jessie's very anxious to come across but I think when she's been doing nothing for the last six months she should not lose any more time, so I'm not to forward the wished for invitation. There's too many ladies of our kind here already, and she would'nt be any the better of it. What do you think. Mother and I unite in our best love and earnest thoughts for you.
I remain, Your loving Sister, Mary Morison.
P.S. We hear that one of the Whitelaws was dead. Is that true?

Image 132, 133
6 Charlotte Street, Perth.
February . . . , 1882
My Dear John,
Sitting at our front oriel window between 5 and six o'clock, of a fine, mild, spring evening, I begin, pen in hand, to give you the pleasant change we have made in coming here. Really, John, I feel quite happy attics though they be, and the outlook to the Inch and the river is splendid. I wish I could paint you the view we have.
But I must'nt soliloquise, and vent my feelings by taking up space. Well, to be prosy & not poetic, I must first answer a dear and welcome letter we got from you last week. We were quite wearied for it, and we were glad to see you were well and had enjoyed your two holidays Xmas & New Year.
I hope you get the papers all right now, John, Mother is very faithful, I can tell you, in bundelling up & posting them, but really, John, though you pay for them, and it is a pleasure for us to send them you, don't you think fewer would do, and you'd have as much current literature as was good for you. Don't say I'm preaching now, it's only a hint. Walk about & explore the neighbourhood and inhale fresh air in your leisure hours. Mother and I are both thankful you're not going to that boorish place Kimberley, but be happy where you are at present. I enjoyed your thunder-storm at a distance immensely, you pictured it admirably, I expect you'll be turning editor soon. ?
Mr. J. Henderson Junr. sent you moonshine & photo. The latter to show you the new style - promenade - rather longer than cabinet size you'll notice. I hope soon to see yours John. We're all wearying to see what you are like. As for me I'm the same as ever, but I'm to get my photos done & will make you the first recipient of one.
You'll see from the Perth papers we sent, whats going on in the town, and you'll have noticed the many deaths of late. The Earl of Mansfield and Mr. Wm. McLeish were despaired of, but fortunately are both recovering. Measles is the epidemic. Every family almost has victims to it. You wd. notice the honour conferred on Dr. Milne last week at St. Andrews? And the remarks thereon. The session & Teachers had a meeting on Friday night to organize subscribing for a present to Dr. & Mifs. Milne. Mifs. M's marriage is the last week of March, so the West Kirk folk will have enough to do with their collections just now. Wont they? About the same time we'll have our Congregational Soiree. Dr Milroy's Lectures on Eng. Lit. are over for a season. I enjoyed them very much, and I'm sorry they are over. We had a letter lately from Edin. Jessie and all are quite well. Now, John, this is about the sum of general information I wonder if you'd want any particular
I've just asked Ma if there's anything if I have forgotten. She says to tell you she had a lot to do last year, and she'll have a lot ado this year, and if you have a way for her or need a house keeper she'll apply. (Of course she's joking) But why talk this way at all.
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Image 133
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6 Charlotte Street, Perth.
February, 1882.
Have cut with it, Punch. Well, John, I'm wearing a beautiful little ring with five wee diamonds in it (not Kimberley ones, I guess) and before the year is out if all's well as I fervently pray may be, I shall be married. Perhaps about the time the leaves begin to fall in mellow Autumn, but it is not fixed yet.
I don't think you know George Roy, John.
He's been for years in the Savings Bank, Perth, is an intimate friend of John Henderson in whose house I first met him four years ago. He belonged to Redgorton (4m NW of Perth) where he lived with his mother until her death a year past in Octr. When he came to live in town, and attended our church, and sits in the same seat where the . . . sat beside us.
His house is in Barossa Pl. which will (D. ?) my future home. Not very far away you see John.
Of course you known I did'nt go alone to the Hall to the Concerts I told you of, so you wont perhaps be a surprise exactly. I'm sure if you knew him you would like him, and would be sure I'd be happy, and we will try & make Mother so too. She does'nt care much about me leaving her so soon after removing but I think she'll soon get over it. She's pretty brave you know. More so than her family I think.
I shall weary to have an answer to this letter from you. Your ostrich feathers which you so kindly said you'd send will be very acceptable. "Fine feathers make fine birds" & I'm very fond of them.
I hope your friend will have a good voyage across to Scotland.
Wednesday.
The foregoing was written on Sabbath. There has been a considerable metamorphosis in the elements since then, and to-day, March 1st. has come in like a lion, remembering me of this day two years, when we made our expedition to Auchterarder (West of Perth, near Gleneagles, NE of Dunblane).
I could scarcely get round Charlotte St. corner to the dairy this morning. It is so stormy. Ma says we've had African weather for a month past. Last night, I got a box of lovely hothouse cut flowers from Bella, with a nice letter. She is very kind in the minding of me. She sent some at Xmas with letter & card. In return I posted one for her, but that night I discovered from her note it was never delivered. Its very provoking, especially when letters are in it. I will write this week, for she is wondering what is the matter.
Now, John, I must conclude.
I hope this will find you well, and I shall expect an answer by return. Fancy! May 1st. before I can possible get that. Mother and I unite in sending our best love and wishes to you, I remain, Your Affectionate and Loving
Mary Anne Morison.
P.S. I never like to send blank pages but I've outstepped my prescribed 2 pages. Write soon. I like yours very much. M.A.M

Morison M 1882
No address or date
? March 1882
My Dear John,
I hope you will get this letter and peapers all safe I do not think any one gets so many pepers as you you should be fit to enter into the best speakelation in the place with the information that you get from hear I would be glad if you would think of some more edifing literiture than the friend and the half of thies peapers
Mr Gundy of the Teligrufe Office was married yesterday with Knight the Talors daughter and Scot the goiners third daughter with a ship master they are all off now
I am sory that you will have to shift I hope that you will not need to goo far to get in again do you ever think of any other thing you might try it is very risky hard work the gold fields the navies will do best at that work
the smalpocks has bean very bad but I see that they are abating a little W McLagan had got vacinated the last letter it will not be easie for you to remove your things you should sell everything you. dont need to wear Mary ann has given all the news so I need not say any more but I hope and trust in God that you are settled by this time and no worse then you have bean We have great reasen to thank the Lord for he is kind for his grace faileth neaver if we ask for it we will get it I hope that you see that I see it every day I have been bountifuly dealt with I have no other friend I am happy and comfortable I hope to get a nice letter from you soon I sent a little Box with the bit cake hoping that you will get it . its the Conway Castle this week . Jean Downies death was very sudden . she got a little cold and it set in inflamation not a fortnight after she left Perth she was brought back a corps I have nothing more to say at present but remains your loving Mother
M Morison

Image: 141
No address or date
? 1882
My Dear John,
I think Mother has given you all the news, and I'm sure you'll value such a letter as you get from her with this. I did'nt expect she would have so much patience as write it. She never writes letters now, and when one allows it to become a habit it is difficult to begin again. "Habit is second Nature".
Last week was occupied with our St. John's Festival & Phil. Concert. You would see accounts of both in the Journal. I went to both having to pour out tea at the first and being a member of the second was compelled to appear on the platform. I'm not going back however. Chesterfield is losing caste a little in Perth. How soon one does when not careful both of his walk and conversation.
I expect we'll have a weeks holiday beginning on Friday. I suppose it will be very quiet here. I'm not going from home. Mifs Falconer, Jane Downie's Aunt is dead & Jane has gone to live with Dr. Nairne till she makes her arrangements. Poor lass it's a change to her.
I hope to have a letter soon from you. We always weary for them. Have you got our New Year Letter & card?
Accept best love & thoughts.
I am, Your Loving Sister
Annie
P.S. When had you a letter from Edin. or from any body else?

Image 134, 135
6 Charlotte Street, Perth.
April 2, 1882.
My Dear John,
I take the pleasure of writing you a few lines. I hope you are always well and happy. By this time April 2nd you'll have recd. my last epistle and I hope that now there is a nice congratulatory answer winging its way to me from you.
Since last I wrote you I shall try and recount the various events local & personelle. The town is all excitement over the School Board Election. The Established Kirks are taking a more lively interest than before. Each of our churches is to support a particular member & to secure them.
Rev. J ? Wilson, John Shields, Dentist Stewart are among the candidates.
The weather has been so pleasant (though a little cold) I have had some delightful walks with George as my pioneer. Often on Tuesday & Saturday he is done by 3 o'clock and then we go off. I never was round by Walkmill till this year but I've been several times since then. Yesterday afternoon we were over Callerfountain (overlooking the city of Perth) & in by Mifs Lang's.
On Friday was celebrated Mifs Milne's marriage in the Church. It was a grand affair, church (12 a.m.) crowded, ceremony delightfully short, decorations very neat, ladies handsomely dressed, and "tout ensemble" very fine. At 4 in the afternoon, the happy couple left Viewlands on horseback and rode home to Stornoutfield? (could be Stormontfield just North of Perth). An uncommon honeymoon eh?? They were twice in church to-day good beginning is'nt it? He belongs to a Free Church family. I hope he will remain with us. Next Sabbath is our Sacrament.
On Friday night we were in the Hall hearing the Perth Orchestra - Conductor Mr. James Bryson. He is quite famous in the town in teaching. He had a recital by his scholars last week . . . between 30 & 40 of them. I believe it was very good.
I had a nice letter from Eliza last week with her many kind wishes. They are all well, but Jessie has got nothing to do yet. She wants to follow Photography.
I had a letter from Comrie last week. Mrs. McEwan is pretty frail but quite happy & contented. Since I told her I was coming out in the spring she has been making ready. But in so doing what should happen but the plaster fall down. Poor body! I could'nt help laughing. She'd be in such a state so she wrote & told me of the catastrophe. Duncan Ferguson of Meiggan called on Friday. The first visit since we were there last summer. He's to be in Crieff (very West of Perth) last Tuesday of April & kindly offered to drive me out if I'd come. So that would about suit & I think I'll take advantage of his offer. I wont get at my usual time, John.
July is a spoken of for our wedding but it depends on circumstances however, it will be about that time. What do you think of it? Of Annie, Punch, or whatever you like to call me becoming housewife?
I'm wearying to hear from you. I shall be busy for the next three months what with keeping the house right, making things & a stray ramble now and then, the days soon pass.
Mr. & Mrs. McLagan have had a trip of a fortnight to London. They are just full of news of it seeing Jumbo & a host of fairlies.
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Image: 135
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6 Charlotte st, Perth.
April 2, 1882.
Willie's got £50 added to his salary & getting on well.
John & M.A. Henderson well & asking after you. Duncan Stalker is still at Loch Arve.
Now John, I really think I've exhausted by stock of news. Hoping you and all our brethren across the sea every good blessing. Mother & I unite in sending best love,
I am,
Your loving Sister
Annie Morison.
(continues on same page - having received mail from John with photos included, before posting their letter to him)
Tuesday, 5 p.m.
My Darling Boy,
We've just got your photograph. You know, John now Mother and I both felt when we saw it. Oh! My - if it had been anyplace I would'nt have believed it was you but after a bit we saw the likeness. It was startling, but now it is not so bad. You used to look round and dumpy, short, with such a lot of hair about your face, and it seemed so unlike you, tall, thin, clear eyes, little hair and happy with all. Dear John, how time does change one and we cant help shedding a few tears over the likeness of those we love and are far away from our sight but oh heaven near to our hearts and thoughts and prayers.
We don't feel the change ourselves though it comes on us all. We were glad you look nice enough too, I think much younger than what you really are. Now John I'm not to say any more about. I could'nt but just write the minute I saw it what I thought and felt. If you have one or two to spare you might enclose them betimes in with your letters. When you write to Edin. you'll send one. Mrs. Anderson got John's home from New Zealand. The sea voyage made him stout and older like. His first place was in a drapers (?) store at 12/- a week but now he is getting £1 a week at the same trade. So, you see John you may think yourself a gentleman when you have three times as much at your own trade. You'll be laying a little pile by for old age though to judge from appearances you're counting backwards instead of thirty it will be twenty yrs. of age. No more from your loving & dear Sister
Mary Anne
Do-write - soon -

Image: 258
Wedding Invitation for Mary Ann Morison's wedding 13 July 1882
Apr 1882
This image includes an envelope addressed to: Mr J Anderson, 51 High Street, Perth;
Postmark: H Perth AP . . . 2[sic] 77 (perhaps April 1882, ?H ?77).
Mrs. Morison
Requests the pleasure of
Mr John Anderson's
Company at the Marriage of her Daughter Mary Anne,
to Mr George Cunningham Roy,
on the Afternoon of Thursday, 13th July, at 3 o'clock.
An early answer will oblige.
6 Charlotte Street, Perth,
22d June, 1882.

Image 136, 137
6 Charlotte St, Perth.
May 28 - 1882.
My Dear John,
I have the pleasure of penning a few lines to you and I trust again they find you as leaves us, very well in health & spirits.
We have'nt had a letter from you since I last wrote you, when I answered your valuable missive. I hope you enjoyed your Easter recess & were the better of the holiday. Are you delighted with the result of your Elections & style of Govt. With last weeks papers was enclosed a nice & pretty programme of your Conversayione . I suppose it was, but don't you sometimes substitute Dutch for English? Was it you, John, who sang - O! are ye sleeping etc. I guess it was I was delighted. Oh, if you could only sing a song at my wedding. "A prophet hath no honour in his own country" & I fancy "pluck" - to use a slang term either. In your case it is true. I think I must persuade Geo. to come out to Natal.
We had a visit from Bella. She called on the Saturday but as Geo. & I were just going to . . . she came back on Monday to tea, when she very kindly brought me a pretty silver jelly dish. Was'nt it thoughtful. I will prize it very much. Geo. & the few confidential friends I told were surprised I tell you. As long as I have a home I'll have the wardrobe. It's not like anything that wd ? . . done ?
Thursday 25th inst. Was our Queen's B-day. Geo. took Mother, his sister & I in a machine up to Methven to see his oldest brother, then on to Logiealmond (NW of Perth) past the college to the Cairnies?, where he has a sister a Mrs McLagan her husband & five boys.
We had a fine day notwithstanding the drizzling rain. For weeks before the weather was splendid but just broke on Wednesday.
Mr. & Mrs. John H. were at Loch Arve with the East Church Choir. We had a visit from Mrs. Liddle, Leith. She is well & looking fine. Dr. Milne's been away for three weeks but has returned. There's nobody like himself. The Sabbath appears different when he is with us.
Jane Bury, (you wd. mind of her) died on Saturday. Consumption I think was the matter, but together with it she about broke her heart over an engagement she made with a fellow Young. He was a great pedestrian used to be often with Lorn . . Tom? Whittel - I believe you'd know him better than I did. He required all his good income to himself so she gave him up but never got over it. David Wylie's going down to Dundee to start a branch for Patterson & Co.
Perhaps you would notice in the Scotsman the death of George King. I heard of it just after I posted my last letter to you. Poor fellow, he just wasted away. His wife I suppose will live with the rest of her family, the Robertsons. They have just Bought Dav. Wylie's flat at L500 at corner of Blackfriars St. & ? Whole Cres. Old Peter Lary, of the Greyfriars died last week (90) and old Jeanie Dow (86) in the Castlegable, so you see, John, soon all the old folks will be away. Now, John I've given you all the news I mind of. I am very busy to-morrow (Thursday) seven weeks (July 13) will soon come and we must have every thing ready.
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Image 137
-2-
6 Charlotte St. Perth.
May 28 - 1882.
It's a new experience to me and I'm afraid many things will be omitted which should be done. His sister is not very strong and is'nt able to do much.
Now, trusting this will find you well & comfortable, and hoping to have a letter from you soon (I always weary for them)
With Mothers & my united love.
I remain, Your loving Sister,
Mary A. Morison.
P.S.
A few weeks ago, we had a visit from Dr. Drummond's Comrie youngest son. Unexpected, but he stayed here three days, anxious he said to know all about Natal, as he'd like to go out. He was a few yrs. in Ceylon, had a sun-stroke, and had to come home, is getting restless now. He goes away & his people don't know about him. Although he's queer, he watches No.1. & wont tell you much. I write this to let you know, for fear he should turn up in Durban not to be bothered with him. We discovered just yesterday, that he had been a week with Mrs McVicar (Junr.), not a bit grateful either & she told him to go home. He asked Mr. McLyan, at the station for money to take him away but of course was refused. Want of money is the draw back. There's not much wray with him, he could make his way well enough in a foreign land but if he does turn up you have nothing to do with him. He's just a torment to his friends.
M.A.M.

Image 139, 140
4 Charlotte Street, Perth.
July 3 1882
My Dear John,
I take the pleasure of writing you a few lines, which, I do trust, find you well and happy, as leaves us - minus worry - at present.
Our schools have all closed for a vacation, consequently many are off to sea-side & country. The weather is all that could be desired for such. I trust it may continue till Thursday week. Last Saturday the West Kirk Scholars had a trip in the "Forfarshire" to Newburgh, which was very much enjoyed by all. When there, I called on Henry & Mrs. Wilson. They are very nice - were asking kindly after you.
The Sabbath afternoon following, our usual children's sermon was preached by Mr. Kerr, Assistant. My last meeting with my Sabbath class, John. I did feel it a little breaking old associations. I've taught in S. School seven years.
They say our lives are divided by seven & 7 is certainly a particular number.
Yesterday, Dr. Milne preached me two sermons; the one about using our talents and the other; that no good would be accomplished unless done for God's Glory.
The text "Except the Lord build the house they labour in vain that build it".
I don't expect to be in the West for three Sabbaths and then I'll be on the other side the pillar John. I'm very very happy I'm going to the same church still. I'm after my time in writing by a week I think, but you forgive as I wished to be able to tell you all I could before the event, & after it I will write you if all's well.
George is getting his house all cleaned. My things are all ready to go in I suppose about the end of the week, and then we'll get this house in order for the ceremony.
I enclosed a copy of invitation in last week's paper, which I hope you got. I sent one to Jessie in Edin. & asked her to be my maid being the only relation suitable.
And fancy, John, she isn't coming. I'm afraid its her father who is perhaps angry he is'nt coming. How selfish he is, I was very sorry for Jessie. Lizzie McLagan will do instead.
Uncle Joseph & Auntie Aggie were up on Tuesday, & are coming back to the wedding. Joseph will hold me up with his strong arms & give me away. My dear brother, I wish it were over. Mother is sad already and beginning to realize the change.
I'm thankful I'm not going far off, I will see her very often. Geo. is all lifes together, though sometimes he thinks he'll forget sometimes. He says he never was married before, & so folks will excuse him. I ought to be happy & comfortable. Mother, his sister and he have done everything to make me so. His sister, who has been keeping his house has taken a house in Murray St. for her furniture, & is going to the country. She is'nt strong at all. He is the youngest of nine, & she is the oldest.
Now, John, I've given you most of my news I'll give you a full account of next weeks proceedings as soon as I can, and a list of my presents. I scarcely feel they all belong to me. As before, you ? have been very lucky I have some beautiful things and useful also.
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Image 140
-2-
July 3, 1882.
I'm to be married in navy blue satin & the orthodox wreath & veil.
Mother sends her best love and thoughts with mine for you.
Wednesday, 5th July.
Last night we had a letter from you dated 4th June, a delightful letter but we were sorry to hear of any change such as you spoke of. I trust it will be for the better, however. How delighted you would have been if you had been in a nice comfy cottage! But it will be yet, I hope. I hope to save up & get that too, but it will be a while.
*We were very sorry to hear of the small pox on board D.C. *? Mr. Whitelaw from Natal is here. I think a brother of the one who was here last. A man told Mother about him & I think he promised to bring him up tomorrow & see us.
I'll write as soon as possible after the event on Thursday. You're the first John to give me my new title as wish me joy but better "afore than a (hint"). ?
Mother & George's love again.
I am, Ever your dear Sister with old face & ways.
Mary A. Morison.
P.S. Had nice letter from Bella last night too.
Please excuse writing - & oblige. Punch.
I do wish you were here just now.
We never seemed further separate than now, but oh, John our spirits are near.
M.A.M.
*writing hard to read

Image: 142, 143
Perth
Oct. 9, 1882
8 Barossa Pl.
My Dear Brother,
I take the pleasure of writing you to let you know how the folks this side of the Atlantic are behaving. I trust you got my last all right & that there is a nice answer on the way for me which I hope to get very soon. We had two papers from you; and Mother Recd. your letter which delighted and pleased her very much. We all tried to get a bit of cake sent you but the least would cost 6/- & we thought it not worth that. However, Mother sent a box with it to McEwan who will have sailed from London by this time, and I hope you'll get it as soon as this, to dream on.
About our photos. It has been settled at last that we're to go to Henderson's on Saturday first, if all swell and have them taken; so if they are presentable to any one; you shall have a duplicate the very first on the list John, I assure you and welcome.
The season is nearly over now, everything is beginning to have a wintry hue already and our little town has settled down to its usual routine. It is pretty quiet, but there's always a little "troubling of the waters", to show that all are alive in it. George is well, happy, & busy; is done with his work by 5. Next month, November, he begins night duty - from 6 to 8 in the evening, and with the dark nights now, our walking expeditions are about over for a season. I think the last long one we had was a week past Saturday; we went away by back of Murray Hall, by Pitroddie (East of Perth), up to Glencarse (South of Pitroddie on A90) & got the train home a 10 miles walk. Good! eh???? ------- For me. --------
Mother was down that afternoon at Lochee & found all well & jolly. She had a letter (2) from Nancy, with always the same complaint. I wrote a week ago to Jessie, but have had no answer yet. I never had time to write since my marriage. They have been shabby after all the kindness shown them by us. I think we might understand the proverb, "Man mind thyself". & walk up to it too.
I don't think I told you that Leitch & Leslie, that great firm, had split; and Leitch has gone out with £2100 as his share. Wonders!!! You'll think; but things have'nt gone smoothly for some time. Leslie had'nt acted exactly fair with the Advertisers in the Cattle Show Catalogues, & he was fined £150 by one firm for his little "swindling" as some gently named it. Leitch would go out or stay; but not as partner with Leslie; so the latter remains with the business Leitch really acquired. I see him going about yet; but I suppose he'll soon be off to a situation. He agreed not to start business in Perth for 2 years.
You will be surprised to hear of Mifs Jane Downie's death. She had just gone back to her situation as Governess in Rathsgate (?Wrathgate); got cold & inflammation to which she succumbed a week past Saturday. Her remains were brought here last Thursday and buried beside her Aunt. Alas! John, we know not who may be taken next. She called on us when here. Her prospects were bright and she was doing well. Of course, she had made no will, but I think her Mother will heir her money etc. It is a lesson we should arrange anything however trifling as we would like it to be disposed of should any unlooked for event occur. I think, John, you, so far from any of your relations and dear ones, should consider this, and make provisions as you would like.
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Image: 143
-2-
Perth
Oct. 9, 1882,
8 Barossa Pl.
Oh, John, not but that I fervently pray you may long be spared and that we shall yet meet this side of the shore; yet it is but a duty.
Have the men arrived for your office yet; I hope you may remain; or have no worse, you've been pretty comfortable, I think, and it must be coarse, rough work at the gold fields. There will be plenty of a rush to them. I think you should keep nearer the more advanced parts Durban, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, etc.
I have just had a letter from Jessie in which she asks for you. She has no news, is always in White's. Now John, I've exhausted my stock. I trust this will find you well and happy. Write to me often you know I'm always the same as Punch who used to send you blotted letters & so forth. George sends his best love and kind wishes for your prosperity & hopes you'll soon follow his bright example & not put off. And with all good thoughts,
I am, Ever Your Loving Sister,
Mary Anne Roy.

Morison M 15 Nov 1882
6 Charlote St.
Perth
15 November 1882
Dear John
I take the pleashure of writing you a few lines I hope that you are well I think it is a long time since we had a letter from you the pepers are quite regular but you might send a few lines oftner and not be at a loss to fill up a sheet to me every week or too at most I was caling on Tom Pedies mother the other day she was giving me a lot about how Tom is situate I did not know that he was down and away back again . I see that the smallpox are a little better I hope that you have recovered your vaccination it has caused a great deal of trouble and anceity about the Country
Saturday was the term day here I was at Cragie geting my rents but thire is always somthing requiring to be done however I got all my money one removal
you never think about me up here siting all alone thise long evenings I am going to take Isibela Chrichton for company and she will be useful too she is beteen eight & nine her step mother Mrs Melais has too boys neave has a coal sheed
I think that they have enough to do I see him with a cart himself sometimes I saw him with barrow in the Gaurd venel yesterday I do not know how he held it I hope that you have seen McEwan and got the cake all right his here are very kind
I think you will get a good deal of amusement in the peapers espeashly when you read about the stenden and the Lord Rector of Edin Coledge
I think when I write you about the new year I will be giving you the news of a young Henderson it has bean long time a coming about the name of Mary Roy & her liks it best I never thought that they would have put it in the pepers I told them when they came home he said he was very sorry that it was done I never bought another peper I was that angry I could not looke at it so it saved me buying a few pepers I intended to doo I hope you are in a comfortable furnished room are you always in a room of your owen I see you advertising sumer things gust now and we cannot get enough of clothes on I cannot see through my windows with the frost on them and the Inch is all white with rhime
I see you have large sales of skins you might send one if you could get a chance sometime thire is a great deal of discontment in the country one would need to try and save if posiable and have something to leave it
I am glad the war in Egypt was so soon over the income tax is a sixpence halfpeny I have not any thing more to say at present,
I hope God will grant you grace and guide your footsteps and direct your paths where ever you goo is the wish of your affect mother
M Morison

Image: 144,
No address or date - ?1883 - beginning of year
My Dear John,
We're all wearied not hearing from you since about the 20th of November, last year! When I got my first letter from you since we were married. (13.7.1882)
We know where you are when we get the papers regularly, but we'd like just a few lines oftener. You know though you're far away, you are a great deal in our minds and mouths too. At least Mother's "unruly member" as it is sometimes called, is eager to reason why you don't write. I hope all our wishes will soon be gratified on that score.
I was just wondering if you were one of the many Scotchmen present at St. Andrew's Festival. It must have been very grand. We read all the accounts of it in the Adv. Any changes in your office yet. I'm sorry trade's so dull and hope it may improve and the European's abilities be more widely and substantially acknowledged.
Now, you'll be wondering how the New-Year has begun in the "Old Country", so I will tell you about it. The Ministers of every denomination, the week before, made a united effort to induce "Temperance", sermons were preached all over; and effectually too, I think, for everybody was more decorous than used to. George had New-Year's Day, and we spent it very pleasantly. The weather not seasonable very dull & foggy. Mother came up and had dinner with us (Did'nt we think of you too, John, and wished you with us?)
In the evening, a few of Geo's friends called and we all went up to 1 Albert Place, where we spent a happy evening, dancing etc. till 1 a.m.
The old folks Mr. & Mrs. H. are very jolly. The young couple are both well. John is very attentive at home just now Situation very interesting. ---------. I got a few pretty cards.
Bella sent a letter and one from Helensburgh to me. She is very kind. She sent me a beautiful everlasting flower, by her sister, who was through spending a few days with her.
Roy.
(Mr & Mrs H. = H for Henderson? Hendersons lived at 1 Albert Place.)
(Letter from Mary Ann Roy)

Morison M 14 Jan 1883
6 Charlotte Street
Perth
14 January 1883
My Dear John
I take the pleasure of writing you a few lines hoping that they will find you in good health as it leaves us all ongoying same great blessing the new year has come in again it makes no difference to me the weather is pretty mild we had a very sever storm of frost for about a fortnight too three weeks ago We had a visit from Henry Duncan a month ago he was sent to move a family to Edinburgh so I had him too nights . the family were all well and he is looking very well himself
The peoples Institute where I have got the peper from this some time have given up the reading room as it has not been paying and the other clubs dont sell them but to the members I will send you as many as I can
I was calling at the McEwns to see what word they had got the son he never got ashore last trip but another of the enginers so he gave him the box to post and money to pay for it his mother did not remember the name of the place thire was eight of the men who work at the livering of the vessel drouned he is not back with the Conway Castle this time he dosent know what one he will be with next I think you got the most of the news
James Milar the diyer wife has had twins daughters . John Roy the Butcher died very suden coming in a machine from the Rind on a Sabath evening. Kety Lennox is dead also Pety Johnston is dead Smith the Ham curers wife and three children have died of whooping cough . . she was one of the Hills
I must now conclude my epistle after giving you a simery of what is happning here and will be glad of a few lines from you when convenent
I send you the only card that I have got of Mr Roy trusting that I will get another sometime . I hope you will get all right so no more at present but remain
your Afect Mother
M Morison

Image 145
8 Barossa Place, Perth.
Feb. 7 1883.
My Dear Brother,
I take the pleasure of writing you these few lines, which, I trust find you well as leaves us all at present.
In your last letter to Ma, you said it would be my turn to get one next, so I hope it is'nt far off, for I do like to hear from you, and how you are getting on. I was sorry to see by a letter in the People's Journal of dull trade in Durban. What's that owing to ? - I trust it may not affect you, and that you may be no worse off than you've been since you went out but better; is my earnest prayer, John, for you.
It is your summer season, and all vegetation will be blooming while here the country is quite bare - not even covered with its white mantle. Since Xmas, the weather has been very mild, with more rain than we require.
"Strange that summer skies and sunshine,
Never seem one half so fair,
As when Winter's snowy pinions,
Shake the white down in the air."
I'm glad winter is nearly over, the days are longer and signs of spring will soon be visible. I have'nt seen any snowdrops yet - the harbinger of Spring.
We are all jogging along much as usual. George's hours are not so long now, home about 8 p.m. About a fortnight ago, we were up at Glenalmond at the funeral of Mrs. McLaggan;s (that's Geo's sister) oldest boy . It was a sad trial for them. He had a severe cold which ended in inflammation of the lungs.
It happened to come on snow all the day and the cortege had to walk to Chapplehill about 3½ mls. And back in about 16 inches of snow. All the road home (we drove in a dog-cart) I just felt with the drift in my face, two hot bricks at my feet, wrapped up that you could scarcely see me; that I was in a part of Greenland. George's sister Isa, that I think I've told you about isn't getting better; but I'm afraid will soon succumb to her troubles. Last week she has been quite laid up. Her two brothers and Mrs. McLaggan came to see her. Poor body, she seems quite resigned to the inevitable and is very patient. Is'nt it hard to feel that death alone will release the body from pain. It has put us very much about living alone, round in Murray St. her niece* has been very attentive to her.
How thankful we should be of our health! It is the greatest blessing we enjoy. I am always glad Mother keeps up so well. She is indeed healthy though not over strong but very active. I had a letter the other day from Phobie Anderson asking for you. Her mother has just reached her 80th year!!! What will we be if we're spared to that John ? - have been writing of death, sickness, and old age. Let me know
(This is not a complete letter from M.A. Morison - Roy)
* not legible

Morison M 13 Mar 1883
6 Charlotte Street Perth
13 March 1883
My Dear John
We weary to hear from you its a long time now since the 25 Dec. altho we get the pepers we might get a letter oftnor The pepers have bean very interesting this while the discreption of the town and the New Town Hall has made them very entertaining I remember after I was maried of a great deal about the new colhony Port Natal and a great many people went away to it I am sory that you are so much troubled with your legs what doo you think is the cause of it what kind of food do you get what cuntry people are you lodging with you mentioned sometime ago that you and another one had a room you have had a trial of all the Ways of it I hope that the trade is geting better the Printing trade is not much worth here . *Lazll (Layll) has given up the peper here and bought a London one the Whithall Revue I am told that Robertson & Henderson & Hunter have it among them I am shure you get a lot of reading in that Scotsman between court of session and Irissh murders and all the Parliment you should be well versed of all the runing topics of the day I take out the shet of advertizements to let you get all the reading as it is such a large peapre sometimes gust a book that Smith Flower Deal Cotage is down at orchard Neuk the man is Mrs Youngs Father that lived in the passage with us over in the closs but I find that its not her brother but a child that her sister had if they write you again never mind them he is an old man eighty five he was up at me the other day asking me what you said about it. Leitch is in a place of buisnefs in Glasgow but he has bought that shop at the corner of John Street where Carrnichal the Shoemaker is so in another year perhaps he may make a start thire what a great many changes in a short time when one has a little money to work with you would wonder what a person can doo
Mrs John Henderson has got a fine little girle to carry about now they are all very proud about it and very kind boath sids of the friends
I think by the next time I write you that I will have the pleashure of intimating of a young friend of oure owen I hope all right. they are to enlarge the museum to the back it will darken some of the windows at the back but not any of mine
You can say that your Mother is an old woman now sixty seven yesterday (? 68) I hope that you will not look nor yet be any worse of then me if God spare you to live to the same age I have come through many storms but always had a friend that sticketh closer then a brother put your confidence in God and he will not forsake you have you a good Minister. your peapers have gust now come in I am always to see the same one it lets me know that you are always in the same place . I must now conlude . this leaves us all in good health at present and thank God it is one of the greatest blesings we can engoy so no more at present . write soon from your affect Mother
MA Morison

Image 146
Perth.
8 Barossa Place,
April 18, /83.
My Dear John,
You scarcely deserve a letter from me when you seem to have forgot "Punch" altogether since she changed her name. She's just had one letter since then from you. But I suppose we must forgive and forget all wrongs and dilatoryness.
We have always the papers regularly, and George did not fail to see the nice little bits ("The Soft Spot") you marked for his perusal. I hope you are keeping strong and busy and enjoying all good things that a foreign land bestows. We are now in our Spring season & it is delightful so bracing and budding; after dull Winter.
Since last I wrote you I have a great deal to do. Mifs Roy gradually got worse and after a sore struggle, "The thread was hard to break" she said herself; she died on the 15th March. Her sister and little boy took ill with the fatigue of waiting on her, and the change of atmosphere for the fortnight before her death; after which they got over here; and I had a new experience in nursing and attending Doctors orders for my two patients. Quite an infirmary I had. They were taken home in a close machine as soon as possible and are now recovering slowly. I think I must have caught cold changing our bedroom for ten days after I had a dreadful time with my head - neuralgia, and ultimately sore throat, when I was forced to get the advice of the Doctor. Mother had a time of it nursing etc. She says she does'nt want such another situation I was sorry she had so much trotting; but I could'nt help it; and she was a great blessing to me. I am all right now & hope to continue so.
This week I've had housecleaning, a regular turn up. Its an awful work, but I'm glad its done now, and its such a pleasure. Mother had kept very strong all winter, but this week she has had an attack of bronchitis. I hope she will soon be better; for I would'nt like to want her; she's so handy. That's terribly selfish you'll be saying; and it is I confess.
I had Bella McLaren spending an afternoon so had Mother. I hope she'll be the better of her holidays she has had a bad turn too. Mrs. Henderson & family called in the other day to see me. They've got baby photographed. I said I'd like one to send to you; so if I get it you'll have a sight of it. I don't know that there's any wonderful news about just now. It is a rarity for me to be down town now. "The cares of a household you see, John. I was'nt at church all March month. I was out last Sabbath - Sacrament. I was glad to hear you had a letter from Edin. I must send them a few lines its my turn. I hope I'll soon have word from you. The race for gold is not so great but that you may stop a little & drop your loving sister a few lines.
Mother & George send kind love with mine united.
Yours affect.
Mary A. Roy.
P.S. When are you going to marry. I dreamt you were here and told us you had got spliced.

Image 147
8 Barossa Place, Perth
June 26, 1883
My Dear Brother,
It's a difficult task to get set down now to pen a few lines; for "our wee man" is sure to waken & put all composition out of my head unless child's talk such as goo goo etc. I have now almost recovered, but could do to be stronger. Baby is getting on nicely, and growing fat & strong every day. He is very good, so I get on nicely. I don't know who he's like. He is fair-haired just now, but I think it will turn darker.
George is very proud indeed of his little son, and is a splendid nurse. He makes quite a stir in the house now. When he was four weeks old, Dr. Milne came to the house & baptized him - James -.
I hope when he gets on his short clothes, to have our photo taken, and you will see by it what like he is.
I intended to have written a month ago; but there's so much to do always, and we've had a good many friends seeing him. Only last Wednesday, we had Mifs Forbes. She brought a silver spoon & fork for him. He's been a lucky child. He's got quite a lot of presents.
I hope good luck will attend him when he grows older if spared "dear wee Tots".
Geo's sister wishes me up to spend a few days at Glenalmond so I think I will go next week for Geo's holidays come the week after. Mother had a letter from you last week and a photo. We are glad you are well and looking well. I'm sorry trade is so dull, but wherever you go, John, never forget the dear ones at home. "Distance makes the heart grown fonder", and we are ever thinking of you.
I hope you may be fortunate in getting a comfortable place when you leave.
Perth is really very quiet; and for your trade, there is little encouragement. The Advertiser has very few men, neither of the papers are worth much.
Your best plan, I think, is, to make as much as you can now when these begin to fail you, and with your little hoard you might manage to fend here, but coming now you would make very little.
It is wonderful where one has to go to spend there life. I see Barbara Souten? (Mrs Hutton, home from Bombay for a year or two, and The Jacksons who went out to America had to sell their land in America at a
(letter incomplete)

Image: 093a
6 Charlotte Street,
Perth
29th August, 1883.
My Dear John,
I received yours this day week we were wearing for a few lines altho weare geting the peper every week we were anxious to here if you had settled any way again you will gust see how you get on and how you will take with the change
We have had a viset of Henry and Elisa young Henry & Agie from Saturday till Monday a fortnight ago Jessie is always at the photography and cant get away at this season the people she is with are leaving Edin. & going to Glasgow and would like if they would let Jessie with them they have no famly and they would keep her they have bean very kind to her but thire is not enough of trade in Edin for them
I had a fortnight at Comrie. Mary Ann had a week her old friends were all very much delighted with the baby he is growing fine she was another week at Carnousty at the sea . I had Joseph & Agnefs up on thire holidays
My friend Forbes Anderson has got maried about a month ago to a man he has served his time in the Navie and has got a good pension I done know if he is any trade or no her mother is a little parilized can move about a little
Mrs. Glass the Bakers wife is very much paralized she is quite disabled and cannot speak a word . they have a house up at Cragie . Magie is constant with her . Robert has comensd busines on himself as an accountant
Tom Christy is away to Astralia to Brisban his wife and five children he has had a sad strugal with the worald he has emegrated . Sandy Thompson the Coper is not geting on very well either he would go if the wife would its wonderful what a short time dose . what a great many changes within this three years since you went away
As for your trade I dont know a thing about it . But thire are too churches begun to build one in Tay Stret at the foot of George Inn Lane the free Medle - and the other at Marshal place free St. Leonardo where Magnes Jacksons was they cannot get a found for water they have a engin pumping at it
I am shure I have given you a lot of news that you wont get in the pepers . I am truly very glad that you are at work and keeping your health I hope that you will consider well before going to another place if you can get employment try to save a little it takes so much money to get to places and you will not get a fortune in a minut no way
I am always thinking if you had something to start a way adoing of your own gust be saving when you are working . Maryann is going to write but she has so little time her little boy is growing fine very like herself and she manages fine she is much thiner but she is looking very well and has a good kind husband very good
I must now conclud hoping you will write soon . I hope that the blessing of God be with you and guid you and keep you
I remain your affect Mother, M. Morison

Image 148, 149
8 Barossa Place, Perth
Sept. 25, 1883.
My Dear John,
Well, it is a little like meeting after a long absence to write you a letter now.
"Time flies fast as swallows fly" and makes many changes too.
I hope you will not miss getting this: for your own pleasure and my satisfaction.
When you write, I think you should always mention when you get any letters from us. I doubt very much if they all reach your hands. Did you get Mother's letter with Mrs & Baby Henderson's photograph in it?
I enclose our carte. You see we've got it done at last. What do you think of it? Of Punch and the little chappie you never had the pleasure of seeing. I hope you will like it and keep it among your treasures.
I was afraid (it being done instantaneously) that it wd. not be presentable, so they knew nothing about it till the proof one came.
Little Jim was vaccinated a week ago, and is getting on nicely. I suppose the teething will be the next of his little troubles. I wish you could just look in upon him just now lying sleeping in his little wee cradle neat & trim. The very picture of innocence. He's his Father's pride and joy. What a difference it makes in a house.
He keeps me busy all day till he goes to bed at 7, and then I feel a little at my ease for the rest of the evening.
One's aims and thoughts are all different when little ones like him come into a home. We live in a little world of our own then, and outside affairs give us little or no concern; consequently I know very little outside news. The papers George sends you will let you know how the City moves. Very quietly; but steadily. There is nothing startling just now that I know of. Everybody has got home from their holidays; schools are all up; and the nights drawing in make us feel winter is approaching. Mother was up to-day. You'll be glad to hear she's well and smart as ever, is a great blessing to me many a time, keeping James when I want out and giving me an advice often. You knew her way, John, & you cant change her nature. She wearies, and likes to see the Baby; so she's up very often. We went up this afternoon to see Mrs. Henderson & baby - both well. They're always asking for you.
I was in Shaws' the other day. He has had papers from you & guessed you were now in Cape Town. And now, John, how are you liking C - Town? And I hope the work is pleasant. Many a time we think of you; and I hope you may get on and have your health and when God sees fit, we shall all meet yet. I always believe in an all-wise Providence overruling all for good.
Have you met any Perth people yet? I spent an afternoon lately with the McLaggans. They had a (sister & husband) of Willies; wife from Cape Town with them. Poor man he has come here in search of health & has been very poorly. I enjoyed meeting her she tells me there is snow in winter there so I hope you will be careful of colds. I intended to have sent you a letter last Wed. (your Birthday) but I had'nt the photos. I wish you many returns, and wherever you are may you be better and never no worse than you are.
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Image: 149
-2-
Sept. 25, 1883.
I suppose Mother told you in her last that W. Thomson, Lochee is away back to Calcutta to make money!! & I think I told you that Maggie Sutcliffe is now Mrs James Symmers & are living in London, he being a Dr's. assistant there. We were just counting that at present there are 10 Doctors between The Barracks & the Bridges, so there's no want of medical aid when required. They're all at this side of the town. No John its about 10 p.m. so I must conclude.
Do write soon, and honour yours truly with a letter. Of course, we always have a read of Mothers, else I should starve for all the word I get from the Cape, which seems so familiar to me now through the Newspaper Medium.
George, Mother and I all send best love to you John & hoping to have a few lines soon.
I remain, Your loving sister -
Mary Roy
Is there always communication between Glenoran & Cape Town eh?

Image 150, 151
8 Barossa Place, Perth.
November 27, 1883.
My Dear John,
I have just been looking up my diary, & I find it is just six weeks since I wrote you last and a long time it appears since I had a chat with you. Now, I suppose I will just be in time to wish you a happy Xmas & a Good New Year. We are all, I'm glad to say in good health which great blessing, I trust you fully enjoy.
Little Jim seems to grow every day. He is very interesting now, and I'm thinking he'll soon grow very wild too. Did you get his photo? What do you think of it? Its too bad, John, much I value a few lines from you. We have the papers regularly, I hope you received those George sends. I don't think he's missed a mail for many months.
We are all jogging along much as usual slowly but steadily. There is no very startling change in the town. You will notice by the local news how things are going on.
For myself, I don't take such an interest now in outside affairs. I have a little world of my own now which engrosses almost all my attention and time. I am just as busy every day as I can be. My wee man is so lively I wish you could seen him tugging at whatever he can get within reach of his wee fat fingers be it his Dada's whiskers, my nose, or perchance the Scotsman, and laughing and crowing all the while. He has no teeth yet else I think he'd soon speak, and he's very fond of getting on his feet. We've got a grand coach for him he is so heavy to carry it is a great help. Picture your Punch wheeling a perambulator!!
We are out every day weather permitting, but it has been very unfavourable this some time past. A great deal of rain. The hills all round are white, and I suppose you are just into your summer season - ? - It must be delightful. George is very busy just now. They are at their Annual Balance in the Bank. This is the second week that they work till 1 in the morning. I don't like it at all. I'm glad it does'nt last long.
On Friday last, I had a visit from Bella McLaren. She has left her place to stay at home all winter and recruit her united health & spirits. George was suggesting to me (not to her) a voyage !! It might have the desired effect.
*On Saturday I was up seeing Mrs. John Henderson. They have removed to ? land, to a larger house. Baby is getting on nicely is weaned & will soon speak & walk. John is always asking for you. Frayer, (or Frazer?) the Captain of Police, in Cape Town was here some time & he was to ascertain if still here, that he might take a parcel out.
What would be a treasure of value out there besides Brisk Trade. I suppose that would take best, but really, is a scarce commodity here.
Is there any part of dress that you'd care for if we had a chance. I should like to send you something John.
*Mother sometimes has a letter from Edingh. I had a visit from Miss McLagan & Mrs. G . . . . (Gorrie?) (Janet) today.
Now, John, I think I must draw to a conclusion.
*unable to decipher
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Image: 151
-2-
November 27, 1883
When are you going to write me. Tell me just how you are, what doing, what wearing, what eating, where staying, and all about yourself. I would like as much if you did tell me. Do, now, there's a good lad.
You'll have got Mam's photo. What do you think of it. It looks as though she had got something to cross her just before. Doesn't it? You will be glad of it. Better than none, but it is'nt good. I hope she may yet have a better.
I enclose Xmas cards from Mother and me with all our fondest prayers for a good new-year.
May it be better to all of us (though parted yet united) than the last & no worse.
I'm always making resolutions for the future, we all do. But it is sometimes difficult to keep them. Dr. Milne last Sabbath from the verse ("For now are we free from the law of sin and death") was preaching; but alas I often feel beset with sin. It is difficult to live a pure & holy life. But we must try. My dear Brother, accept all our united love and hoping to hear soon from you,
I am, Ever your loving Sister
Mary Anne Roy.

Image 152, 153
8 Barossa Place, Perth.
June, 1884
My Dear John,
It is a long long time since I had the chance to write you, but your papers and more especially your nice letter were welcome sings to us of your welfare and I now embrace the earliest opportunity to give you a "screeve".
But first, I must tell you we were so truly thankful that you had got safe to Port and were well and got work. May you be well and prosper in your new home is my sincere prayer for you, my only brother.
What a lot has happened since my last to you! For some time I kept a list of events, but I don't know what has become of them, so must have recourse to my memory which I'm afraid much resembles the sieve spoken of so often. When I got your last letter & pretty Xmas cards, I was as much cast down & sad as ever I was. I was sitting at the fire with my wee man quite unconscious on my knee at the very crisis with bronchitis. Oh, dear me, we thought he was never to look on us again. But the verse on one of your cards seemed to inspire me with faith and hope & trust, and the next day he got the turn, soon got well, has never had an attack again, & is as strong as can be. He seems all over the house and to-day he walked to the end of Barossa St. all himself without any hold. I copy the verse for you. I think it is beautiful & I have often thought of them (the lines) since. Our dear old Sheriff Barclay died early in the year. Also Mrs. McGregor in the Post Office, and about two months ago Maggie Baker, poor lassie, she was married a year ago to James Symmers went to London had a baby and both died in a day. So that is the end of a young life. Her mother is very ill about her. Mother went up to see her. Freddie is'nt very well. Willie would arrive about the same time as you in Australia some place I don't know exactly.
*It would be funny if you met him would'nt it. No doubt you would enjoy seeing a "Kent ? face". He's been a dreadful rolling-stone. Poor Willie Thomas has had to return from Calcutta rather poorly. The climate did'nt agree with him so he could'nt stay. He's better since he came back.
Mrs Scobie, Edinburgh, got another son last week - 3 children now. All well. Baby Henderson well & running. Jim and she are keeping apace just now in their little infantine accomplishments. E.g. boo boo . moo moo . tic-tic, ba ba ta-ta. We have had very dry warm weather therefore scarcity of water.
*George is looking forward to Saturday fortnight when we will get away to the sea-side - Carnoustie likely, & recruit. He feels very much in need of a change of air. We had a visit last week from Mifs McLaren. She is across in Mifs *Cornfute's? as house-maid. She is looking very well & nice. I don't know that I have any more news other than Mother will give you as she tells me she is writing you this mail too.
* Writing hard to decipher.
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Image: 153
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June, 1884
Jessie & Aggie are having a jolly time of it just now. Of course, I cant get out as of yore to walk her about, but she finds a capital substitute in her gallant Master John McLean. They have removed from Bridge Lane to a flat in George St., and are all getting on well.
The School Examinations are this week - an exciting time for many little brains. When you have properly settle down, we will send you a paper now & then to let you know what is going on. What splendid values you give for the money in the case of the newspaper. I hope everything is in proportion. Excuse writing, and in your expected letter to me, tell me, I've done no' that bad, Punch. You know how soothing a word of praise is.
And now I must close my budget.
We all send our best love & wishes & hope your first impression of Adelaide may in very way be sustained & if possible improved. In expectation of a few lines all to myself, my dear brother.
I remain, Your loving Sister
Mary A. Roy.

Image: 094a, 095a
6 Charlotte Street, Perth.
26 June, 1884.
My Dear John,
I received your letter & peper on Friday morning and was so glad to get the letter and see that you had got a begining of it again I was wearing very much this is the third peper that I have got it is very large you should gust send the one as I can give Roy a read of it we can scarcely read it all - the last letter I sent you I think would gust arrive after you left and some pepers to give you all the particulars of Shereff Barclays death & funeral I believe you have not got them.
I am very thankful to see that you have landed in a good kind of a place and I hope that you will take with it & like it you are far away like in another world and still when you consider thire is no strange god we are all under the same devine power and if we are spaired for a little while we hope through his devine providence I
hope that we will soon meet here again in course of a little time.
Jessie Duncan & Agnefs came here on Saturday. She is disingaged gust now her employer is away to Glasgow . they are all very well so she is on holidays the seasson is gust in I am thinking of Comrie again . Mrs McEwan is very frail I just always get the room . Mr & Mrs Roy are going to Carnoustie little James is walking fine he is a very lively little fellow. Maggie Henderson is a fine little one but very quite she never smiles. Mrs Scobie Alva St. has got another boy a week ago three children now he is doing fine in his shop and growing very stout. I am sory to tell you that Maggie Baker died about six weeks ago she had a babie about the day before James is in a situation in London her Mother did not know and she qot a telagram of her death which was a great shok to her.
Willie went away I think to Sidney in Dec - they have not got any word :from him yet our church is to clean just now Mr. Milne wants fifty pound for it old Lennie died last week and left over too thousand pound not any to the church and Smith of the Moncrieff Arms Inn is dead. Hendersons daughter is to be maried to day with Chisholm the Dreaper in George St, he was buise When I went in yesterday so I got this from Robertson in the evening he sent, it up with his girl the oldest one is in Edinburgh at the Normals very cleaver,
We were at the Bridge of Earn yesterday it was a fine day Mr Roy joined the Hamerman in the winter it cost him about twenty pound so instead of a diner they take a trip and it was yesterday they had breakfast at Dunkeld then they drove round to a Lonch where they spent some hours fishing and had dinner they came home another road in by Scone about ten o'clock I must tell you an amusing incedent that ocured in our trip we went away round to the Wells as usual so going in the road past Kilgraston Gate a good bit we begun to wonder and think what o clock it might be so Mary Ann, would take out her watch to see but behold thire was no watch its lost you remember the fancy little thing and dident that put us all about so we turned back looking very eager every step but no so she was to teligraph to Perth she had it thire before leaving so going into the station thire she found it lining among the gravle close to the entrance she was like to fal down with g ? now John wasent a very remarkable thing to lay in that public place such a long time I am gust telling you this for a little amusment to you
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Image: 095a
-2-
6 Charlotte Street
Perth
26 June 1884
I see she has wrote a bit simelar to mine you must gust excuse as I cannot doo it over again . this is sharps examination day Mary Ann & Jessie is going up to see it for a while.
You had a long tedeous passage but I am glad that you landed all well . I must now conclude hope that you will get this all right I hope we will not he long of geting another letter from you so no more at present
May the blessing of God ever be with you is the wish of your
Afect. Mother
M Morison

Image 154, 155
November 1884
My Dear John,
I've been watching for a letter every mail for the last three months, but would you believe? The postman has never delivered it. I'm sure you've written to me since last Xmas, but that is the last I have had from you. To be sure we've had some splendid papers which we all enjoy, and many more than us. The last one, of Perth was quite interesting. It seems to outshine our Perth in the West. Tom Christie is there, and sent home a People's Journal. I think there is riper *print? or fruit to be got where you are than in a new far away place like Perth. Now, how are you getting on? I hope you enjoy that greatest of blessings, Health.
From the quantity and quality of the papers, (our only clue, you know) we are sanguine that you are in a good way, and prospering. It is a much better place than the Cape. Now, I hope, John, you are fully conscious of the transient nature of things that strength wont always last, and you hope to come home and spend happy days and happy hours in a well-earned old age.
I think it is the greatest regard of a well-spent life. Comfort and old age. But you'll be saying Has marriage made Punch like this? Well it has made her think it all over, but she's none the less happy for all that. Now, I'll see if I can open my Budget.
In most cases, there's a summing up at the year's end so, we'll abide by the good custom.
We are into Winter now and have had a good deal of cold weather, most of the storm as yet being wind and rain. Then Jim & I are prisoners. I take him out every day when fair & he's very fond of running about. I think you would be very fond of him now he is so sharp - knows every word you say - needs constant watching; & I assure you we are all delighted when he lays his fair curly pow down to sleep. He is very healthy, for which I should be thankful. George is well & busy about their balance. Next fortnight I cant have him home till midnight from the bank, but if he is none the worse of it we wont object when he brings home his 7 guineas for his extra. Folks were busy this week with the term. I suppose when the time comes round you'll think of "olden days".
Mother has not been quite so fortunate with her investment as we expected. A great deal of work has had to be done to the house & one of the largest half flats was empty this six months - a clear loss of £10 - - I'm glad its occupied for next half year. Poor body, she thinks more of losses than most people & Mother has a habit of "crossing bridges before she comes to them".
George is the opposite; always of a hopeful turn? of mind; telling us to "Better bear the ills we have than fly to those we know not of".
Mother has been calling on Mrs. Baker, Mast (or Mart) Hotel. I have been once, but I don't mean to go often, where I don't care to introduce Geo. She is very kind to Mother. Freddie is still in the office & getting on well. Willie Sutcliffe went to N.S.Wales, & fancy, has never written his mother. I think I told you before he arrived about the (same) time you did in Australia.
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Image 155
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November, 1884
Mrs Baker gave Mother the enclosed intimation, & wished her to ask you to put it in your paper. Is it still the "Register"? He might possibly see it, and she would be very glad. I hope you will do it, & if spared to meet in the old countrie she wont forget you. They have a splendid trade in the Hotel. The West end of the City is very much opened up now.
Mr. Leitch has just got his shop opened. This card is from him. His premises are beautifully done up, & I hope he will succeed. He opened on Little Dunning & Geo went in & bought me a silver pencil & pen for "tarin".
Last week we had a little Bazaar for Female Missions in our Mission Hall. I got some nice useful things at it. What do you think of the Missionaries' work. We collect a great deal of money for them. Our little church is sincere & energetic; though fast changing hands. Dr Milne is well & a splendid minister. I don't know John if I have any more to say at present. I think I will conclude & write you soon again. I hope we'll soon have a word from you. This will come to your hands about Xmas & New-Year.
My dear John, think when you take it from Postie that you shake my hand, oh, so firmly; & wish us a happy Good New-Year. I'm sure it is my earnest prayer for you.
Mother & George unite with in sending our best wishes & kiss this for Little Jim.
I am your Loving Sister,
Mary A. Roy

Image 096a
6 Charlotte Street, Perth
13 May 1886
My Dear John
Gust another few lines to let you know how we are all I have had a month of bronchicits but I am quite well now I gust write to let you know that Nancy is dead she died on Friday but the neighbours missed her on the Friday and when they got in she was gust about gone I got a teligram that night but I could not go through Forbes Anderson has been very kind looking after everything and her husband has been very kind to her mother was parlaized every bit of her and lay in bed for ten months could not move - I am very thankful to God Nancy has not bean laid up it would have bean a serious job for us if she had
I had a call from Eliza she was at Dundee seeing Duncan & Jesie they are all very well you will see, from the peapers about that grand Exhibition we will go across about Midsummer if all well we see from your pepers you have Exhibitions and a great many amusements to if you have the money the one has and the other has not the same here it's a very bad gob that Bank failure I hope that you have no money in it they are bad rascles I think this country has never bean like itself since the Glasgow Bank failure here. Mary Ann has got her little boy weaned and he is walking nicely
I don't know what newes to give you . Mr. Roy sends you a peper every week which gives you all about everything I think you should write him a kindly letter and not be so unwilling to write a few lins . we are always glad to see your peper
I have gust met Mrs. Shaw and her little boy he is a year old a pretty child he is very like the Father I done know if I told you about him after being thirteen years married
Mr. Roy has given Mary Ann a pretty new gold watch today the little jewel dose not keep time isent he very good . I must finish neur post time . doo you think of writing soon so no more at present.
I remain your effet mother
M Morison
God bless you

Image 156
Carnoustie.
July 15, 1886.
My Dear Brother,
Well here we are at our summer holidays a fortnight at the seaside after a fortnight at Glenalmond with George's sister.
It is rather too cold & stormy for our comfort; but dry though.
The bairns enjoy the links and the sand very much, our baby is walking now so I have a little more freedom & Mother is here with us so she is cheerier than in No. 6 Charlotte St.
I was glad to see you had written a note to Mother in good spirits. She is always very thankful of a few lines, and you should write often & give her the details of your everyday life.
I hope you are well & comfortable with plenty work & few but trusty friends. It is a long time since I had the pleasure of writing to you, but I get no letters written now when I'm at home & you will know we are all in the way of well-doing when you get the papers regularly.
At Barossa Place I am as busy as ever I can be every day, I have not embarked in the servant line yet though I often threaten to get in a girl. Have you heard that Mrs D. Stalker (Jessie) has got a daughter? About a month old I think. I expect to call & see her some of these days. They are getting on fine & will have a lively house now.
Mother went to Edinburgh for two days last week to see the Exhibition. The two Henrys were keeping the house beautifully. Eliza & Aggie being in Dundee. By this time you will have Ma's letter telling you of Nancy's death.
I have just been looking at a card we got on the 13th wishing us many happy returns of the day. Four years since we were married & I have been very happy John & comfortable. I hope if ever you marry you will be as fortunate as I have been.
George is very kind & attentive to Mother too, notwithstanding her droll ways sometimes. Davie Blair's brother the baker one is still at the Kimerley diamond fields getting a pound a day & Tom Peddie in a store in Bathurst. Do you ever hear of any of them. Now, John, you might write me a letter all to myself. I wd. be so proud of it. We all join in sending our best wishes to you & with best love,
I am, Ever Your Affectionate Sister
Mary A. Roy,
8 Barossa Place, Perth, Scotland

Image 157
8 Barossa Place, Perth.
Septr. 7, 1886
My Dear John
We were down at Mother's this afternoon & had a read of your letter which is always so welcome to us all. You have no idea what an impetus it was to make me write you at once. I am glad you are well & happy as leaves us at present.
We have got all our holidays over now and are beginning to feel reconciled to our regular jog trot again. We spent a fortnight at Glenelmond & a fortnight at Carnoustie. Mother went to Carnoustie with us & has not got to Comrie this summer as of yore. There's not so many there to care for her now. Old Katie's still alive & living with Maria, who has bought Mrs. McEwan's house. How many happy days I spent there!
I think we are all the better of the change & should have no complaints for a long time. Mother is very well & brisk as ever. It is a great blessing for us all that she is so. We have got 3 *lanterns? lately, & Mother the Observer which she faithfully peruses & is thankful for as every week comes round. We will get the People's Journal for you. On the August holiday George & I went across to Edinburgh with the Excursion, Mother being nurse (& proved a good one) at No. 8 for the day.
We got into the Exhibition at ½ past 9 a.m. & stayed in it till 5 p.m. enjoyed it immensely. One requires to see it, rather than read of it, to realize the extent regularity & beauty of it. I had fancied that from what I saw of yours in the papers, ours would be smaller.
I was very glad we had seen it, and should be very glad if you could enjoy the same treat. Are there no cheap fares to it as we have here Could you not devise a way to come. Doff the Gents garb you have in Adelaide, don the incognito & work your passage home; pardon me for suggesting such a thing, but think how much it would save.
I guess you have alway's a heart for Scotia's shore John. Sometimes when I'm thinking of olden days, it seems not so long since I saw you nor that you were so far away; but when I want to see you again then the gulf comes between us that great ocean that I have no idea of; but as long as we are in health & in the way of well-doing, let us hope that we will all have a happy meeting here yet. This is the first time I've been in Edinburgh & not in Eliza's, but we had not time.
I have'nt seen Jessie's baby yet. The are removing out to Airlie Pl. Dundee & have not been up yet. I wont be down this year now.
*unable to decipher
letter incomplete - probable second page over - dated Aug/Sept, 1886

Image 158
app. Aug./Sept. 1886.
George Jim & I were in the East Church yesterday & John Henderson, lively as ever, came across the . . . with us. The Scobies have been in Perth for a month & never once called on your dear Punch, but shabby gentil as of old you'll be sighing - And right your are. -
I don't think if I had to depend on them I'd be very well off; but I should be glad I don't need to. I've got a good husband who will always take care of me.
Mother I'm sure is very happy that he is so good to us. It makes such a happy home. Since Thursday we have had an Aunt of his with us. She had been 12 yrs. in Tipperary Ireland with a nephew who is now getting married so she has come home to her native countrie.
She is going up to Glenalmond to Mrs. McLaggan.
Our town is increasing very much with building & you would be surprised to see the Station they are making. We enter now from York Place. It wont be finished for some time yet. County Pl. & Methven St. is the principal thoroughfare.
John Henderson was just remarking the difference it was making to them already in the way of business.
Mr Shaw has got a nice shop in John St. he is always asking for you when I see him & all your old friends I know.
Now I must close my budget. Before this reaches you, you will have entered on another year. (another decade I'm I right?) May you have a prosperous happy year, and not a cloud to shadow your path, is my prayer for you. Write me a letter soon & tell about your home, your comforts & the Exhibition.
With united love from Mother, George and myself
I am Ever Your loving sister,
Mary Roy.

Image 097a
6 Charlotte Street, Perth.
9 Sept. 1886
My Dear John,
I received your letter on Monday morning and was glad to see by it that you are in good health and emplored always in the same place I should have wrote you sooner, but this day fortnight I kept the too boys and let Mary Ann & George to Edinburgh to see the Exhibition Thursday being the inauguration holiday and last Thursday thire was an Aunt came from Irland** things gust taks up my atention so easey . this is a birthday card altho a little behind the time its with good wished all the same one would need to look out so long before the time you are growing old now born in forty seven this as been fine weather or this week
My window is like to be blown in gust now with wind and rain & I am feared from some of the earthquakes we got the alibums of Melbourn & Sidney not one of Adelaide since we got a smal one long before and we got a number of pictures red riding hood and the too friends meeting master has got the Lantren this week or too, your picture of the Exhibtion looks very prety and as large as Edin one. if Nancy had lived on July she would have been seventy nine you would not have thought it she managed very bad it was a good thing that she was not lade up and needing atendance, I am shure you would like to come and see us all I am told that it cost more money to come home then to go out I knew a person that went out as a stewardess for want of money to pay and got out that way long ago before it was so cheap as it is now.
I hope that you are careful of your money its not easie keping it or saving a little one needs a firm nerve to take care of it . Sidey in the shoe shop are failed and away about Dundee . Henry went to America, thire are a great many rogus about Adelaide what a lote of money thay embezel one and another of them
Fred Sutleff is going to get married to a Mifs Duff she has a brother in Hay & kids, Mr. McGregor has retired . Jessie is going to be married to Goudy (?) in the telegraph he is apling for the post office you will wonder I belive like me & I am shure I give you a lot of news as good as a peper . I hope that you will write us soon again and tell us how you get on if your always in lodgings and if your thinking of coming home its not an easie journey have you ever seen Tom Pedie, Will McLagan is removed to the Orange Free State to Blomfontine and gertng five hundred & fifty in the year . he removed in June and it was very bad weather and not very easey to get on.
Jim & I have just come in & interupted our Granny in her epistle. You have no idea of the storm of wind & rain that's raging now. I wish we were home again . I think your prayers are answered now & we have got the rain over here, but John mother bids me say to mind your prayers at all times. You know how the Bible says "The Prayers of a righteous man availeth much".
We have had very little sun & heat this year & now the harvest is begun we would need good weather. Write soon to us all. Your Mothers best love and wishes with mine united.
Your affectionate Mother
M A Morison
Last two paragraphs written by daughter Mary
** An Aunt of Geo Cunningham Roy

Image 98a
6 Charlotte Street, Perth.
25 Nov 1886
My Dear John
I take the pleashure of writing you a few lines to let you know that we are all in ongoing good health although thire is a good diferance on the system if you be spared to see three score & ten you will know a difference too but I have great reason to be very thankful I have every comfort you will be saying this is a bit preaching from the old Lady & I get your peper very regular if one don't come this week too comes next week I like a read of them very much but I am not able to read them all the one this week is the nothren tradgy of Heath shoting McKinnon
I am looking now for the trial of Hall and acomplace for poisioning his wife.
Now I have to tell you that I sent away a parcel to you this week consisting of too shirts too ties one pare of very pretty braches Mary Ann bought at the Bazaare . I was very sorry about the making of them . Mrs Young took ill when in the medle of making them and died in three days illnefs and another party had to finish them that disappointed me very much I hope that they will wear with you I wished you would get them by the new year . I hope you will write and let us know . thire is such a diferance in the caridge of things now that made me think of it . are you thinking of a trip to Melbourne thire is such a diference from heare we have had a long track of bad weather many a field of corn good for nothing with rain . thires never any word from W. Sutleffe the lad Sumers that Magie married died a month ago seven month bad in Aberdeen
Frede is to be married on Tuesday first he is a big stout wise like man and always at the mart a fine place of buisnefs although a lot of oposion
Mr & Mrs Roy are going to the marige I prefere stoping at home. I have sent you a bit of Jessie McGregors cake & Mr Gaudy you may remember of him with the wooden leg . in the Teligraph Office I am shure you know about everything here getting all the pepers and such an epistle as I give you I am very glad to see that you keep your health and always emplored and so many not you have great reasons to be very greatful and thank God night & morning
It's a great comfort to us all when we think about you . we have got the Album last you sent of Adelaide . we never got one of afraca by Mr McEwan you sent us some vews one time . the Australia Albums are all three very pretty and a smale one you sent soon after you went to it we were thinking some times that you had got a wife and famly long ago
Jessie Stalker has removed to Airly Place out the Perth Road . I must finish as its near post time . hoping to hear from you soon be shure and write when you get the procel . I hope God will be with you in all your ways and guide you in every good work
I remain your Affect Mother
M Morison

Image 159
19 Queen Street, Craigie
June 13, 1887
Dear John,
Here we are, all removed from 8 Barossa Place and you will be surprised though I daresay now, you wont think so much of a "flittin" as we do.
Mother has been unfortunate in getting the Queen St. house let, so we thought we would come up, and I think we have made a good change. The house is larger than our old one, and we have a splendid view, also a green & garden which will engage our leisure time. I think we will like Craigie very much. There are a great many new buildings here and shops quite near. We just removed yesterday and we were tired enough. Fred Sutcliffe & his wife live next door, & have a beautiful house. It will be a long time before ours is in order but we'll get on betimes.
Grandma has been superintending the packing all week & she came up to-day to see us, she will have a little longer walk, but the road seems always short to those we love. She never cared to come before to Queen St. but she will be more interested now. I hope the two houses below us will soon let. Tonight, after tea, we took her up to Craigie Knowes. It was delightful. We have got beautiful weather to begin with.
I hope you are always well, & getting on well. You know you never write me at all now John to tell us how you are. George always sends you a paper weekly & last time a line was in it to let you know of our removal.
You promised to write me long since, but I think the fulfilment of the promise sinks in the mighty deep floats between us. We are always glad to see the "Observer" and the "Sketchers", I sometimes think I should see your name printed in it, however if you are as regular in all duties devolving on you as in sending Mother her weekly volumes (she never likes to miss a week) you are doing fairly well.
I don't know that there is anything of a newsy kind I can tell you of. I am always so busy & happiest in my own little establishment.
Thursday next is our Jubilee holiday (I see you don't forget her Majesty either) I expect there will be some demonstration down town for us to see. We will send you an account of it.
George is always busy in the bank, & for a few days past has been assisting in the general work of the family.
Oh! The joys of being a family man when theres a flitting. He has always a cheery word for us all that does a great deal to help us. Our two boys are well & big & strong. They sometimes wonder about their Uncle John over the sea. They have one at Glenalmond that they can see & its all right. Autie Bell is there just now for a change. Write soon & cheer us up a bit. Mother is'nt as able to walk up here now as No.8.
Our united love to you, I am Your loving sister ever,
Mary Roy.
Will send Graphic next week.
(Sketcher is a magazine which later became "Post")

  Other Records

• Residing, 1838, Dunbarney, Perthshire, Scotland. Mary Ann was living at Dunbarney when Eliza Stevens was born.

• Census: Scotland, 6 Jun 1841, Dee Street, Aberdeen, Old Machar, Scotland. Mary is recorded as age 20 (and living with older sister Agnes a Dressmaker). (Robert Tyle as Head of House with wife Oder Tyfe and 7 other occupants named Clark & Brown.)

• Census: Scotland, 31 Mar 1851, 11 Dee Street, Old Machar, Aberdeenshire. Mary Ann is recorded as Sister, Unmarried, age 35 born Aberdeen, Dressmaker (sister of Agness Neish, Head), also Ann Birse age 42 White Seamstress.

• Old Parochial Register: Marriage, 1853, Old Mahar, Aberdeen.

• Scots Ancestry: Extract, 1853, Old Mahar, Aberdeen.

• Census: Scotland, 7 Apr 1861, 55 High Street, Perth, Scotland. Mary A Morison age 45 Wife

• Census: Scotland, 3 Apr 1871, 53 Thistle Close (after 55 High St), Perth SCT. Mary is recorded as Mary Ann Manson and she is described as Head of House, a Widow, age 55, no occupation, born Old Machar, Aberdeen.

• Census: Scotland, 3 Apr 1881, Perth, St Pauls, Perthshire. Mary Ann Morrison is Head age 65 years Occupation formerly Joiners Wife.

• Census Extract dated 12 Nov 1980: Scotland, 4 Apr 1881, 55 High Street, Perth, Scotland. Mary Ann Morrison (nee Neish) Head Widow age 65 born Old Machar Aberdeenshire Occ Nil formerly Joiners Wife.

• Perth Directories: Scotland, 1884-1885, 6 Charlotte st, Perth.

• Census: Scotland, 5 Apr 1891, 16 Duke Street, Edinburgh. Mary A Morrison is recorded as M-inlaw age 75 and living on Private Means

• Extract: entry of Death, 1892, 16 Duke Street, Edinburgh.

• Will: Settlement, 9 Mar 1892, Perth, Scotland. WILL
Trust Disposition and Settlement by Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison
At Perth the ninth day of March Eighteen hundred and ninety two years. In presence of Andrew Jameson Esquire Advocate Sheriff of Perthshire. Compeared Donald Manson Mackay Solicitor in Perth one of the Executors of the deceased and gave in the Trust Disposition and Settlement by Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison. After designed and Inventory of her Personal Estate duly stamped with Twenty two pounds ten shillings Sterling of duty and oath thereon after written desiring the same to be recorded in the Register of Inventories of Personal Estates be kept at Perth for the County of Perth conform to Act of Parliament which desire the said Sheriff found reasonable and ordained the same to be done accordingly the tenor whereof follows: I Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison, residing at Number six Charlotte Street, Perth, widow of the late James Morison, smith in Perth, considering it to be expedient that I should make a settlement for the better regulation of my affairs in the event of my death, and having full trust and confidence in the ability and integrity of the persons hereinafter named as my Trustees and Executors, and for the love and favour I entertain towards the beneficiaries hereinafter mentioned: Therefore I do hereby assign dispose convey and make over to and in favour of William Stalker, painter in Perth, Donald Manson Mackay, Solicitor there and Melville Jameson Junior, Solicitor there and to the survivors and survivor of them accepting but in trust always and for the ends uses and purposes herein after expressed All and Sundry the whole property means estate and effects heritable and moveable real and personal of every kind and wheresoever situated presently belonging or which shall belong or be due and addebted to me at the time of my death, together with the whole writs, titles, vouchers, and instructions thereof, and all that may be competent to follow thereupon, dispensing with the generality hereof, and declaring that these presents shall be as good and effectual as if every particular of my said Estates were herein enumerated and described, and also declaring that these promises are granted in trust always and for the ends uses and purposes following vizt. In the first place for payment of all my just and lawful debts deathbed and funeral expenses and the expenses of carrying these presents into effect. In the second place for payment or delivery at the first term of Whitsunday or Marteninas which shall happen at least three months after my death of the following legacies or provisions vizt. to my daughter Elizabeth Stephen or Duncan wife of Henry Duncan joiner in Edinburgh the sum of Two hundred pounds Sterling which sum I have presently invested in a Debenture with the Edinburgh Lombard Investment Company and also to deliver over to her my whole household furniture and plenishing clothing jewellery and ornaments within my dwelling house; and to my son John Anderson Compositor in the Register Office, Adelaide, South Australia, the sum of Three hundred pounds Sterling out of the money insured upon my life with the Standard Life Assurance Company exclusive of any bonuses thereon these legacies or provisions to be paid free of legacy duty. In the third place and in consideration of my grandson James Roy being already adequately provided for I appoint my said Trustees to pay convey and make over to George Cunningham Roy and Mary Ann Morison Roy children of my late daughter Mrs Mary Ann Morison or Roy equally and to the survivor of them All and whole the property belonging to me situated at Number six Charlotte Street, Perth consisting of the Upper flat with, attics, cellars and pertinents, also One hundred pounds presently invested by me in a Bond of the Province of Cordova, and one hundred pounds, presently invested by me in the Capital Freehold Land and Investment Company; And in the fourth place for payment and division of the whole free Residue of my said Estates equally to and between the said Elizabeth Stephen or Duncan my daughter and George Cunningham Roy and Mary Ann Morison Roy my grandchildren and the survivors and survivor of them share and share alike. Providing and declaring Always as it is hereby provided And declared that in the event of any of the beneficiaries above named predeceasing me leaving lawful issue, then such issue shall come in place of and receive the provisions which their parent would have taken if alive equally among them if more than one share and share alike; And also providing and declaring that my said Trustees shall have full power to sell and realise the whole or any portions of my said Estates, excepting the foresaid heritable property at Number six Charlotte Street Perth and the said Household furniture and furnishing in case the beneficiaries thereof shall survive me and take their provisions under these presents, and that either by Public . . . . . . or private bargain at such times and upon such conditions as they may think proper and they may appoint factors and agents, either of their own number or otherwise to assist them in carrying these presents into effect, and to whom they shall allow suitable remuneration and the said Trustees shall not be liable for such factors and agents or for each other but each only for his own actual intromissions; And I appoint the said Trustees to be my Executors with all the powers relating to that office and I reserve my own life: rent and power also to alter innovate or revoke these presents in while or in part at any time as I may think proper, And I revoke all former deeds or writings of a testamentary nature executed by me, and I dispense with the delivery hereof and I consent to registration for preservation. In Witness whereof these presents written on this and the preceding page by Robert Reid apprentice to Messrs Jameson and Mackay Solicitors Perth all subscribed by me at Perth on the eighteenth day of February Eighteen hundred and eighty nine before these witnesses the said Robert Reid and James Brodie Boyd, apprentice to the said Jameson and Mackay. (Signed) Mary Ann Morison, Melville Jameson Jr witness Robert Reid witness James B Boyd witness James B Boyd Witness.
I Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison before designed and in exercise of the powers reserved to me in the foregoing Trust Disposition and Settlement do hereby revoke and recall the legacy or provision of two hundred pounds Sterling thereby made in the second place in favour of my daughter Elizabeth Stephen or Duncan wife of Henry Duncan Joiner in Edinburgh, and in place thereof I direct my Trustees at and after my death to hold the said sum of two hundred pounds invested in the Edinburgh Lombard investment Company or in whatever company or security the same may then be for behoof of my said daughter in . . . . . . for her . . . . . . us all mark, and to pay the interest thereof to her in such sums and at such times and terms in the year as they shall find to be most convenient and which . . . . . . provision shall not be liable for the debts or deeds or subject to the diligence of her creditors and upon the lapse of said ?lifeient provision by the death of the said Elizabeth Stephen or Duncan or upon my own death in case I shall survive her I appoint and direct my said Trustees as soon as convenient thereafter to realize the said sum of two hundred pounds and pay over the same to the said husband and the children of my said daughter then surviving equally among them share and share alike, and with this alteration I approve of and confirm the said Trust Disposition and Settlement, and I consent to registration hereof along with the same. In Witness Whereof this Codicil written by Robert Reid Apprentice to Messrs Jameson & Mackay Solicitors, Perth is subscribed by me at Perth on the twenty sixth day of November Eighteen hundred and eighty nine before these witnesses Henry Jameson Solicitor in Perth and the said Robert Reid (signed) Mary Ann Morison Henry Jameson Witness, Robert Reid Witness. Perth 27 February 1892, the foregoing is the Trust Disposition and Settlement with Codicil annexed referred to in my oath to the verify of the Inventory of the Personal Estate of the deceased Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison of this date as relative heredo (signed) William Stalker, John Thomas Sheriff Clerk.
Inventory of the Personal Estate of Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison.
Inventory of the Personal Estate where solved situated of Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison Number six Charlotte Street Perth her creditors and upon the lapse of said lifeient provision by the death of the said Elizabeth Stephen or Duncan or upon my own death in case I shall survive her I appoint and direct my said Trustees as soon as convenient thereafter to realize the said sum of two hundred pounds and pay over the same to the said husband and the children of my said daughter then surviving equally among them share and share alike, and with this alteration I approve of and confirm the said Trust Deposition and Settlement and I consent to registration hereof along with the same. In Witness Whereof this Codicil written by Robert Reid Apprentice to Messrs Jameson & Mackay Solicitors, Perth is subscribed by me at Perth on the twenty sixth day of November Eighteen hundred and eighty nine before these witnesses Henry Jameson Solicitor in Perth and the said Robert Reid (Signed) Mary Ann Morison Henry Jameson Witness, Robert Reid Witness, Perth 27 February 1892. The foregoing is the Trust Disposition and Settlement with Codicil annexed referred to in my oath to the verily of the Inventory of the Personal Estate of the deceased Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison of this date as relative hereto (Signed) William Stalker, John Thomas Sheriff Clerk.
Inventory of the Personal Estate of Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison.
Inventory of the Personal Estate where solved situated of Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison Number six Charlotte Street Perth who died at Edinburgh while on a visit there on the twenty ninth day of January Eighteen hundred and ninety two.
Scotland.
I. Personal Property
1.Household furniture and other effects in the
deceased's house conform to appraisement £24 5 0
2.Balance due to the deceased or an account
Current with the County & City of Perth
Savings Bank £150 14 1
Interest thereon to date of oath to Inventory £1 2 7 £151 16 8
3.Rents of Heritage due by the following tenants
1. Edward Knox 17 Queen Street Perth
1/2 years rent £8 10 0
2. Mrs C MacWilliam 21 Queen Street £8 10 0
3. Alex Corrie 19 Queen Street £8 4 6
4. James McCrow 19 Queen Street £8 4 6
5. D Crawford Smith 19 Queen Street £9 0 0
6. George C Roy 19 Queen Street £9 0 0
7. Mrs Bayne 6 Charlotte Street £9 0 0
Proportion thereof falling under Executry £26 0 0
4.Policy of Assurance No.34545 M with the
Standard Life Assurance Company on the
Life of the deceased £300 0 0
Bonus additions to date of death £34 19 0 £334 19 0
5.Debenture No.165 of the Edinburgh Lombard
Investment Company in name of the deceased £200 0 0
6.Bond No.4011 of the Province of Cordova in
Name of deceased for £100 payable to Bearer
At the price of £17 10 0
7.Six shares of the Perth First Wheaton Bread
Society at the price of £1 10/- at date of oath £9 0 0
England
1.Debenture No.S288 of the Capital Freehold
Land and Investment Company Ltd in name
of the deceased vizt. £100 0 0
Interest thereon to date of oath at 4% £2 1 4 £102 1 4
No Estate in Ireland
Amount of Personal Estate £868 11 2
(Signed) William Stalker, John Thomas Sheriff Clerk
At Perth the twenty seventh day of February Eighteen hundred and ninety two. In presence of John Thomas Esquire, Sheriff Clerk of Perthshire. Appeared William Stalker, Painter in Perth Executor of the deceased Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison, who being solemnly sworn and examined, . . . . . . . that the said Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison died at Edinburgh domiciled in Perth Scotland upon the twenty ninth day of January Eighteen hundred and ninety two. That the deponent has entered upon the possession and management of the deceased's estate as Executor nominated by her along with Donald Manson Mackay Solicitor, Perth and Melville Jameson Junior Solicitor therein a Trust Desposition and Settlement executed by her upon the Eighteenth day of February Eighteen hundred and eighty nine and Codicil annexed also executed by her upon the twenty sixth day of November Eighteen hundred and eighty nine, which is produced and signed by the Deponent and the said Sheriff Clerk as relative hereto. That the deponent does not know of any testamentary settlement or writing relative to the disposal of the deceased's personal estate and effects or any part thereof other than the said Trust Disposition and Settlement, and Codicil. That the foregoing Inventory signed by the deponent and the said Sheriff Clerk as relative hereto is a full and complete Inventory of the Personal Estate and Effects of the said deceased Mrs Mary Ann Neish or Morison wheresoever situated and belonging or due beneficially to her at the time of her death in so far as the same has come to the deponents knowledge. That the said deceased had no personal property abroad. That the said deceased had heritable estate in this country. That the value at this date of the said personal estate and effects situated in the United Kingdom including the proceeds accrued thereon down to this date is Eight hundred and sixty eight pounds and does not exceed Nine hundred pounds Sterling. That Confirmation of the said Personal Estate is required in favour of the deponent and the said Donald Manson Mackay and Melville Jameson Junior All which is truth as the deponent shall answer to God. Five words delete before subscription. (Signed) William Stalker John Thomas Sheriff Clerk. Collated by John Hasse

• Scotland Probate: Calendar, 28 Mar 1892, Perth, Scotland.
Scotland National Probate Index (Calendar of Confirmations and Inventories) 1876-1936
1892
MORRISON, Mary Ann Neish or.
Value of Estate, £868, 11s. 2d.
28 March. - Confirmation of Mary Ann Neish or Morison, 6 Charlotte Street, Perth, who died 29 January 1892, at Edinburgh, testate, granted at Perth, to William Stalker, Painter, Perth, Donald Manson Mackay, Solicitor there, and Melville Jameson junior, Solicitor there, Executors nominated in Will or Deed, dated 18 February 1889, and recorded with another Writ in Court Books of Commissariot of Perth, 9 March 1892.

Mary had a relationship with William STEPHEN [642] [MRIN: 221], son of James STEPHEN [4055] and Isabella BRAND [4056]. (William STEPHEN [642] was baptised on 17 Apr 1814 in Scotland.)

Mary had a relationship with John Anderson ANDERSON [644] [MRIN: 223].

Mary next married James MORISON [631] [MRIN: 218], son of Duncan MORISON [2827] and Ann SIME [2828], on 15 Feb 1853 in Perth, Perthshire, SCT. (James MORISON [631] was born on 17 Jul 1802 in Perth, Perthshire, SCT, baptised on 18 Jul 1802 in Perth, Perthshire, SCT, died on 21 Dec 1870 in Perth, Perthshire, SCT and was buried in Greyfriars Burial Ground, Perth, Scotland.). The cause of his death was Paralysis.

  Noted events in their marriage were:

• Proclamation of Banns & Marriages: marriage, 1853, Old Machar, Aberdeen, Scotland. (image courtesy R Filsell)
Extract of an entry in an Old Parochial Marriage Record Aberdeen for James Morison and Mary Ann Neish 1853

• Scots Ancestry: marriage, 1853, Old Machar, Aberdeen, Scotland. (image courtesy R Filsell)
Old Parochial Registers, Perth, Scotland, for James Morison and Mary Ann Neish 1853

  Marriage Notes:

MARRIAGE
Old Parochial Register, Perth, Perthshire, Scotland
"Perth 3rd February 1853 contracted:
James Morrison, smith, High Street, St. Paul's Church parish of Perth and Mary Ann Neish in the parish of Old Machar, Aberdeen, daughter of the late Joseph Neish, late Mail Guard there.
The persons above-named were regularly proclaimed and married on the 15th February said year by the Rev. John Wilson, minister of the North Parish of Aberdeen." (From Scots Ancestry Research Society, Edinburgh, August, 1987)

(See also Certificate (in marriage photo gallery) from the General Register Office, Edinburgh, Scotland, for the particulars of an entry in a Register of Proclamations of Banns and Marriages. Record of marriage in Parish of Old Machar, Aberdeen. Copy: 13 July, 1983)

Extract of an entry in an Old Parochial Register, Registration of Births, Deaths and Marriages (Scotland) Act 1965 S47 001925
Parish of Old Machar, County of Aberdeen, 1853
James Morrison Blacksmith High Street in St Paul's Parish, Perth & Mary Anne Neish Dee Street in this Parish signified their marriage by Mr David Monro Elder & being thrice proclaimed they were married 15th February 1853 by The Revd John Wilson Minister of the North Parish. Witnesses: Adam Anderson and Alexander Bain.

The above particulars are extracted from a Register of: Proclamations of Banns & Marriages. Given under Seal of General Register Office, New Register House, Edinburgh on 13 July 1983.
(above information per Rosemary Filsell)

Scotland Select Marriages 1561-1910
Name: Mary Ann Neish
Gender: Female
Marriage Date: 15 Feb 1853
Marriage Place: Perth,Perth,Scotland
Spouse: James Morrison
FHL Film Number: 1040164