Lyceum, Friday Dearest Mother. I haven't had a second of time today, so I have brought some paper to write to you here. I had a very nice evening at Wimbledon. Pinkie welcomed me and was presently joined by Hester who is the proud possessor of a brand new bicycle - we proceeded to try it up and down the road accompanied by a small (and yellow) member of the reigning house of Siam on another bicycle! We adjourned to the Lawrence's and bicycled on their lawn. You realize Mrs L.'s figure? She told me with pride that she was just going to bear[?] and asked me what I advised her to wear. I shd really have advised a domino and a mask but I didn't like to say so. By this time Mr and Mrs Ritchie had returned and we went in to dress for dinner. Afterwards we looked through the books and I chose a lot of delightful ones which are to be sent to Bell Brothers - I told Mr Ritchie not to pay the carriage. He presented me with a fascinating work as a birthday present - Boswell's Letters - you can't think how entertaining they are; Mrs Ritchie is not going north but she is coming to stay in October. She seems very well, I travelled up with Mr Ritchie this morning - he is so delighted about this new appointment. They are all beaming[?]
Hugo didn't come till nearly 11. We went off to Lords and had a very successful day. We lunched with the Yates Thompsons - very pleasant. Mrs Reginald Smith was there - she is going to the Tyrol. I gave her our address and invited her to come and see us. I like all those people. We had tea with Billy and Florence - the Guards have a drag - and subsequent[?] strawberries with the Cockrells.

I met the Wards and congratulated them on Arnold's play. They looked much delighted.

Enclosed is the name of the picture books I want. They cost 10/ each (I fancy). If you like only to give me one, I think I should like Florence.

We are being thrilled by this play. Your affectionate daughter Gertrude