University of Edinburgh Archive and Manuscript Collections

Elwes provides some details of the 'dun-faced sheep' and suggests that Ewart impress on Claud Alexander the importance of photographing the results of his cross-breeding experiments, rather than breeding indiscriminately. He mentions the research of Professor Keller on the Bündner sheep of Switzerland and R.F Scharff in Ireland. He hopes to visit Ewart before going to Shetland.

Elwes writes that he has bought some sheep from Claud Alexander, and that he will keep the sheep on Ewart's account on his estate until Ewart wants them. He suggests that it would be preferable if Ewart's fat-tailed ram would be sent to himself, and asks whether he received the Shetlands from Greystoke. He thinks he had now better not come to Dundee as he wishes to superintend the earmarking of his new sheep.

The year is not written on the letter.

Alexander confirms the arrangements for Mr and Mrs Ewart's short visit and comments that he must try and sell Elwes some sheep.

Alexander makes arrangements for meeting Ewart and states that his zebra bull will be at Ewart's service if there is a decent summer. He has two white bulls for sale, and complains that Elwes will not return his sheep crates.

Alexander thanks Ewart for sending him the pony, and asks his age. He also requests Elwes' address to thank him for sending him one of his papers on sheep. He asks if he thinks Lord Arthur Cecil would join the 'Menagerie Club', as they hope to be able to put on a show and exhibit some hybrids the following year.

Alexander writes that he doesn't have very many old sheep but plenty of piebalds and shearling rams for 30 shillings each as well as a black ewe which interested Elwes. He asks Ewart to let him know which sheep he wants as he must send all his spare stock to market due to the drought.