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  My Dear Walt Whitman,

Since Monday afternoon last (Aug 17th) we have been all agog with heart gladdening excitement; for on that day J.W. Wallace announced his decision to go to America with Dr. B. if possible & asked me to enquire about a berth on the "Majestic" & failing that on the "British Prince."

Unfortunately owing to our late application both ships were full but through the good offices of Capt. Nowell   of the "Br. Prince" we have now secured a berth for him on her. According to present arrangements, then Wallace will sail on Aug 26th & if all goes well you may expect to see him about Sept 7th. The doctor will sail on the same day for New York where he will be due about Sept 3rd & we hope that he will be able to stay with you until J.W.W. arrives at Camden

We are all very sorry that they cannot go in the same ship: but as things are it cannot be   helped & we are too much rejoiced at the thought of his going at all to mind it much tho' the Dr. & Wallace will. A pc received from Dr says:—"I am disgusted to think that we may be separated on passage."

I am too full of conflicting emotions to write much at present, & I cannot tell you how much I feel this intended visit & all that it implies to me—& to us all here—& more especially to him.

My visit to you was the crown & glory of my life & his will be that & infinitely more.

I sincerely hope that   you are keeping better & that your health will permit of your receiving him if only for a short time

Later

Many thanks for your kind p.c. of Aug 11th inst just recd J.W.W. has had tea with me—along with R.K.G.—& we have had a good time talking over his coming trip. He is delighted with your p.c (about his letter re Ballacooil Isle of Man) & intend writing to you but was unable to do so this mail. He & RK Greenhalgh sent their love as does

yours affectionately J Johnston see note Aug 28 1891