Baghdad Dec 9 Darling Mother. I am so deeply sharing your anxiety about Hugo. I almost dread the next mail for if there had been bad news I don't think you would have telegraphed especially as my hands were so full of Sylvia, and if there had been very good I don't believe you would have left me in suspense. Anyhow it's no use wondering and I must just wait till Sunday brings letters.
I am sending you a foolish little Xmas present - 4 boxes of dates. I haven't got them off in time to reach you on Xmas day, but that is because Sylvia took up all my thoughts. I hope they will get to you, however, before your party breaks up.

And how I hope it will be a happy party with no great cloud over it. My love and all very good wishes to you, dearest. Ever your very loving daughter Gertrude