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9 Dec 60 Julius Fyzabad Father ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Fyzabad

9 Dec 60

My dear Father

Your kind letter reached me some days ago, but I put off writing my answer until today, first because Sunday is my resting & writing day, and because the receipt of birthday congratulations should be acknowledged on the day itself.

I thank you very much for your very handsome present which I am sure I appreciate as it deserves. It was very kind indeed of you to think of letting me choose my own present & putting it in my power to select something that would be so valuable. I intend laying out a considerable part of the sum in the purchase of a good horse. I have been long wanting one & no present I could receive would be more acceptable. The only difficulty I shall experience is finding a suitable animal, as I ride a tolerable weight but nevertheless like belonging if possible, to the front rank.

I must also thank you sincerely for your congratulations on my having obtained the age which, in Law, is supposed to make a man. Your kindness has always kept me pretty straight in money matters, which one finds are the principal causes or beginnings of the causes of so many young fellows coming to grief in the Profession of Arms. I trust, as chips of the old block, there is something implanted into the nature of the present rising generation of the Lauries, which will prevent them ever bringing discredit on the name they bear.

I am glad to hear that you are doing better & getting on, although slowly. I am sure plenty of rest & quiet is what you need.

I shall be looking out soon to hear what moves are being made in England to fill the places of our two moving Captains.

With many thanks for your very handsome present.

I am yr affect son

JDLaurie