[2] In Java it is customary to take an hour's rest in the afternoon.


LXXIII

Rembang, June 30, 1904.[1]

When shall I ever be able to write to you as of yore? From all sides come reproaches that I write so seldom. But I cannot do anything else; I have undertaken a great task, and it is my hard duty to carry it through to completion. The children are doing their best, and I have now twelve, among them several who are full-grown.

I am busy now with the outfit for your little grandchild. My sisters are eager for a girl, and my husband for a son. If it should be a girl, then I shall have to love her doubly, for every one here is anxious for a boy.

[1] To Mevrouw Abendanon.


LXXIV

Rembang, July 17, 1904.