"Believe me, "Yours always, "JOHN LEECH."
It goes without saying that so true-hearted a man as John Leech, would be--as indeed he was--a model of the domestic virtues--the best of husbands and fathers, and a most dutiful and affectionate son. In evidence of the latter, I put before my readers some letters written to his parents in his maturer years, which will amply justify what I say of him.
"32, Brunswick Square, "February 25, 1854.
"I am sure you will be glad to hear that you have a little granddaughter.
"She came into the world at a quarter-past eleven o'clock--just now--and she is, with dear Annie (to me a _novel_ phrase), 'as well as can be expected.'
"Kind love to all. "Your affectionate son "JOHN.
"Tell Polly that the flag will be hoisted!"
"8, St. Nicholas Cliff, Scarboro', "August 30, 1858.
"Thank you with my best love for thinking of my birthday. I hope you will be able to wish me happy returns of the day for many and many a year to come. The children gave your kisses very heartily, I assure you. You will be glad to hear, I am sure, that they were never better.
"Thank God they are thriving beautifully, which is a great happiness to me. I wish you could see them making dirt pies and gardens on the sands. A great many people notice them--indeed, although I say it, between you and me, I don't see any nicer little folks down here. If either you or papa could come here for a time we would endeavour to take the best care of you. I am no great hand at pen-and-inking, as you know, so you will excuse a very short note. I thought, however, that you would like to know that I got from Ireland safe and sound, and always believe me,
"My dear mamma, "Your affectionate son, "JOHN."
"1, Crescent, Scarboro', "August 29, 1859.
"It would be a great comfort to me, and I think it would be pleasant for you, if you would come here and see us for as long as you can spare the time. I want very much to go into the north, but I do not like leaving Annie quite alone with the chicks. We can give you a bed in, I think you will say, a tolerably comfortable house. Come as soon as you can, and stay as long as you can. I think it would do you good; only bring warm things, as when it is cold here, it is very cold. By the way, it is my birthday. What shall I say? Well, I wish you many happy returns of the day, and believe me, with best love from all to all,