Baghdad Feb 27 Darling Father. It's too exciting to think that you embark today from Marseilles [Marseille]. You will telegraph to me from Bombay the date of your arrival at Basrah [Basrah, Al (Basra)] and I will meet you there. At present there is no possibility of your returning via Syria - the road may be open in time but I doubt it.
I've just got your letters of Jan 22 and 27 and also your admirable two papers which I read with the greatest interest and sympathy - they came a week ago.

I'm so busy that I'm not going to write you a proper letter - besides we shall meet soon and I shall have an immense amount to tell you. Things are going well here.

I owe Blanche moneys and she won't tell me how much. The items are:

6 forks and spoons

70 rose trees

1 watch (for riding)

I think that's all. Would you either pay her on my behalf or try to get an account from her for me to pay.

Also Marie begs for an electric iron if you can get one in Bombay - an electric kettle would also be very nice. I understand the best irons are arranged for 2 voltages - 120 and 200 - but if not, then my voltage is 200.

Dearest, I am looking forward to seeing you. My only fear is that you'll be killed with kindness, i.e. indigestion, so many people will ask you to such large meals.

My dear love to G. and B. [George and Blanche Lloyd] I'll tell you who would love to see you if you have time, Sir William. He's at Poona [Pune]. Your very affectionate daughter Gertrude