The postmark gives the date March 15, 1823.

Mrs.Ruskin premises that John was scribbling on a paper from which he proceeded to read what she writes down (I omit certain details about the whip): "MY DEAR PAPA, "I love you.

I have got new things.

Waterloo Bridge--Aunt Bridget brought me it.

John and Aunt helped to put it up, but the pillars they did not put right, upside down.