(From Shirley Winston Johns to his Mother in St. Charles,
Missouri).
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The Hotel Metropole
and
The Whitehall Rooms
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London, W. C., May 27, 1909.
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Dear Mother:
This is my last day in London and I have my ticket purchased to Edinburgh,
leaving tomorrow morning. The journey is one day straight north
through the heart of England. I shall wire the Scotch kin from
Edinburgh, having already written from Liverpool. Until three
days ago, I had perfect weather, at Liverpool, Chester, Leamington,
Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, and nearly three days here. So I really
have been fortunate in this wet country. Yesterday and today it
has rained almost incessantly, but I have moved around nevertheless.
Yesterday afternoon I went to the Tower, full of historical interest.
This morning I saw the ceremony known as "trooping the colors"
at Buckingham Palace, and hoped I would get sight of the King, but was
disappointed. This afternoon I went to the Zoo and Regent's Park.
Besides, I have done St. Paul's, where I went to church Sunday morning,
Westminster Abbey, the naval and military museum, ridden on many bus
lines, - a fine way to see the city - and walked miles. This is
a marvelous city, and cannot be appreciated from any description.
I shall be in Edinburgh two or three days and then to Blairgowrie.
Of course, my stay there must depend a good deal upon the kind of reception
I get. It is far north of Edinburgh and will give me a glimpse
of the Highlands.
My boat sails on the 11th, so I will have to move along. I am
beginning to be anxious to get home. It has been a delightful
trip, but having to go it entirely alone has detracted somewhat from
the pleasure.
I shall always regret that you never made this trip. You would
have enjoyed it immensely
I hope your malaria has departed under Sam's treatment. (Dr. Samuel
R. Johnson). My health has been perfect since I left home, and
I am sure I am greatly benefitted. For one thing, I believe all
the malaria is out of me, and that means much. It is a good idea
for you to drive out every day. Don't stay housed too much.
Fresh air is great medicine. Give my love to all at home.
Your aff. son,
Shirley
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