Of course I let him suppose papa was willing and anxious, which perhaps was a low-down game, but I remembered that all's fair in love and war; and besides, I consider papa very nearly a pro-Boer.

We've orders to sail on Friday, which is sharp work; but I should be eternally disgraced now if they stopped me.

As my father never listens to reason, far less to me, you had better explain to him that if he's any regard for the honour of our name, he's no choice left.

I expect my mother had better not be told till I'm gone, or she will only fret over what can't be helped.

I'll write to her on board, once we're safely started.