to Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Stevenson

Wensleydale, Bournemouth, Sunday, 28th September 1884.

MY DEAR PEOPLE,—I keep better, and am to-day downstairs for the first time.  I find the lockers entirely empty; not a cent to the front.  Will you pray send us some?  It blows an equinoctial gale, and has blown for nearly a week.  Nimbus Britannicus; piping wind, lashing rain; the sea is a fine colour, and wind-bound ships lie at anchor under the Old Harry rocks, to make one glad to be ashore.

The Henleys are gone, and two plays practically done.  I hope they may produce some of the ready.—I am, ever affectionate son,

R. L. S.