MY DEAR FATHER, - The David problem has to-day been decided. I am
to leave the door open for a sequel if the public take to it, and
this will save me from butchering a lot of good material to no
purpose. Your letter from Carlisle was pretty like yourself, sir,
as I was pleased to see; the hand of Jekyll, not the hand of Hyde.
I am for action quite unfit, and even a letter is beyond me; so
pray take these scraps at a vast deal more than their intrinsic
worth. I am in great spirits about David, Colvin agreeing with
Henley, Fanny, and myself in thinking it far the most human of my
labours hitherto. As to whether the long-eared British public may
take to it, all think it more than doubtful; I wish they would, for
I could do a second volume with ease and pleasure, and Colvin
thinks it sin and folly to throw away David and Alan Breck upon so
small a field as this one. - Ever your affectionate son,

R. L. S.



Letter: TO MRS. FLEEMING JENKIN



[SKERRYVORE, BOURNEMOUTH], APRIL 15 OR 16 (THE HOUR NOT BEING
KNOWN), 1886.

MY DEAR MRS. JENKIN, - It is I know not what hour of the night; but
I cannot sleep, have lit the gas, and here goes.