The writing was what is called "commercial." I opened it and read as follows: "North Side Mills, Blackford, Yorks.

4/8, 18--.
"SIR, "I have to announce the lamented Decease of my Brother--Reverend Reginald Andrewes, M.A .-- which took place on the 3rd inst.

(3.35 A.M.), at Oak Mount, Blackford; where a rough Hospitality will be very much at your Service, should you purpose to attend the Funeral.

Deceased expressed a wish that you should follow the remains; and should your respected Father think of accompanying you, the Compliment will give much pleasure to Survivors.
"Funeral party to leave Oak Mount at 4 P.M.on Thursday next (the 8th inst.), D.V.
"A line to say when you may be expected will enable me to meet you, and oblige, "Yours respectfully, "JONATHAN ANDREWES.
"Reginald Dacre, Esq., Jun." It is useless to dwell upon the bitterness of this blow.

My father felt it as much as I did, and neither he nor I ever found this loss repaired.