Autograph letter signed : Denmark Hill, to Effie, 1847 Dec. 11.

Saying that though her letter may be short, she writes with a true mother's feelings. Many thanks for letters. She asked John to thank Mrs. Gray for her kind note while John was in Bowerswell and Mr. Gray's decision made her feel that it was needless to enter further into the subject of "your going abroad with us before your marriage." Effie's mother will understand why it is better for them not to marry until they are ready to travel and why she should not come to Denmark Hill before her marriage in April, though Mrs. Ruskin would have been glad if Effie's parents had consented to part with her before then. It is natural that she should grieve at leaving her parents, but she can see them frequently and as the wife of an only child, she will be to John's parents an invaluable treasure. Their desire and delight will be to promote her happiness. They have so few relatives that she will receive a tenfold share of their care and love. They are planning special apartments to which she and John can come whenever and for as long as they wish, but no changes will be made before Effie can be consulted. Mrs. Ruskin longs to see and hear her again. It is comforting that her mother is recovering from the birth of Melville; may Mrs. Gray see her children's children as promising and happy as her own. Effie's last letter to John has been forwarded to Folkstone, where he will remain for another few days. Mr. Ruskin has bought three very nice annuals which she has put aside for Effie's drawing room table. Is there anything she can get for Effie in London? God bless you.