My dear Mrs MacLaren

I have just received a letter from John [...] that he had written to you regarding some part of my uniform which I supposed was left in Irvine. However the articles have turned up and I am now prepared to proceed to China at a moments notice. We were reviewed and inspected by his Royal Highness the Duke of Cambridge this morning. He expressed his satisfaction with the appearance of the Regt & hoped we should be enabled to add fresh laurels to our Colours in the Chinese Campaign.

Everything here is in confusion. We most likely will embark at the end of the week. 3 companies are to embark in the steamship "Transit" the remainder to go in the "Hymalaya". I go out in charge of a Company & will consequently receive additional pay. I shall write to you again before we sail and must conclude at present and with kindest regards to all my friends in Irvine, Ann amongst the number.

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