Mr. Gibson's own work was so pressing that autumn that he was unable to spare the time for the Highland trip mentioned in his letter, when many of the sketches were to be made for the projected story. The remaining letters are from my brother to Mr. Gibson.
"December 15, 1880.
"Some one rang at my door to-day—he must be nigh of kin to Santa Claus—and left your superb volume. It almost took away my breath.
"I gave you 'Small Fruits' only. But the fruits of your pencil and pen are the reverse of small.
"Do you realize what a benefactor you are in sending me, on this dull cloudy day, exquisites of the finest seasons of the year? Spring is months away, but I have had the sweetest glimpse of spring beside my winter fire. The blazing wood supplied the warmth,—and your fancy did the rest in reproducing June.
"I am deeply in your debt. Draw on me for unlimited quantities of strawberries."
"April 16, 1882.
"I was determined to find you a four-leaf clover, and yesterday I succeeded.
"It will bring you no end of good luck."
"January 31, 1884.