Sun 30. [30 November 1902] Had a long talk with Miss Muir in the morning about Brahmans and things and lent her books. She is a most charming attractive and intelligent creature. We unfortunately passed through the Straits of Messina [Messina, Stretto di] by night. Much warmer today. Finished the Birth Stories and began La Mort des D..... which seems excellent. Bridge after dinner. Our cabin companion points all her remarks with "what I did camping in Cashmere [Jammu and Kashmir]" chiefly as to how she dressed to go out to balls - she is 50!