10th April 1845

Thorp Green Hall

My dear Lady Scott,

It is with sadness that I write to console you on the loss of your son, William Douglas.

All of us at Thorp Green Hall were very shocked.

I know, from experience, that to lose a young child is as painful as it is expected, but to lose a boy on the cusp of manhood must be intolerable.

I hope that your own health has not worsened and that your other sons take after Sir Edward with regards to their constitution.

Send my regards and regrets to him likewise.

Ever your devoted cousin,

Yours very truly,

Lydia Robinson