I should have at once come to town, but unfortunately I am laid up with an attack of gout which makes it impossible for me to stir.

Therefore, the only thing I can do is to write to my son hoping that the letter which I send by a special messenger will reach him in time and avail to alter his determination to undertake this journey.

Here I may add that although I have differed and do differ from him on various points, I still have a deep affection for my son and earnestly desire his welfare.

The prospect of any harm coming to him is one upon which I cannot bear to dwell.
"Now I am aware that any change of his plans at this eleventh hour would involve you in serious loss and inconvenience.

I beg to inform you formally, therefore, that in this event I will make good everything and will in addition write off the L2,000 which I understand he has invested in your joint venture.