MS Mrs Katherine Wykes-Sneyd

My dear Irene

No wonder the poet was puzzled! It is a very comical adventure in the annals of Goosedom! I agree with Mrs Martyn in thinking your first question excellent, and your second is very good, but No. 3 seemed to me too big a question. Only think how much there is to say about a county, even if you gave but one line to each event that happened! I was asked to write a history of Hampshire, and I have not begun it yet, being fairly afraid of the quantity of work it will involve. I much more liked the question you talked of on the journey (or rather flight of geese) of the difference between stupid and silly.

I think we must take care not to have too much history, or else one sort of mind will always be foremost.

About the one question for the prize, I have one in my head, and have proposed it to the Secretary but I have not yet got an answer. I suppose she is wanting to discuss it with Mrs Martyn, if you see her, tell her I hope she will answer in time for me to put it in Mother Goose’s letter – as that will save my writing at least nine. Humble Bee rode here yesterday to talk it over. I am so glad to have had that little meeting, and I think we made a good deal of use of our time.

your affectionate

Mother Goose