Hodgson of Clopton House: Correspondence and diary notes

Description

From Emily Hodgson, Montpellier, Brisbane, To Frank Hodgson. She says that they are now settled in their new abode, which they like better than they expexted, except that it is too small. She describes the house and the living arrangements. The garden is in very good order, including vegetables, which are difficult to grow because of so little rain. . Lilly seems to like the Miss Cookseys very much and she goes to the Knoxes. Percy is coming up for the holidays and Papa is going to get a pony for him. Mr Ramsay has promised to teach her to ride when she goes to Eton Vale. She describes going with her Mamma to see the Australian Synod. Papa was one of the Delegates. She tells of visiting Fanny and Thorpe Riding and that Fanny (now Watts) did not recognise her at first, whilst Thorpe thought that she was Annie. There is to be a charity Ball on the 27th. . They have heard nothing of the new Governor, who has not arrived. Charlotte is much better. . They have had a letter from Edward. He has been made Aide de Camp to Commodore Powell. Emma Isaacs is to be married this month. She has been asked to be a bridesmaid but cannot go to Sydney for it. Eliza Spencer is to marry Mr Whally on June 2nd. Papa sent her a watch and chain. Engagement of the Cooper girl. Everything has been very dried up but there has been rain for the last two days. The church that they attend is a funny little place. She teaches Sunday School. Mr Neville Griffiths Russell's son was there. He has a station in the Reichardt District. She says that her Father is standing in the election. She tells of the exploits of Cornwallis Hewitt and a visit from an old gentleman, Captain Dumaresy. They have had many callers and have had to return visits. The Brisbane people are better looking and as well dressed as the Sydney people.The Land Bill has been settled and the Downs thrown open for 'free selection after survey'. The Webbs are their next door neighbours. Does Frank see George Knox? She asks to be remebered to him and says how kind his parents have been to them.