I had at breakfast a son of Sir Thomas Dick Lauder, a very quick, smart-looking young fellow, who is on his way to the Continent with a tutor. Dined at Mrs. George Swinton's with the whole clan. February 8. The Skenes came in to supper like the olden world. February 9. At twelve I went to Stuart of Dunearn's sale of pictures. This poor man fell, like myself, a victim to speculation.

James's cum plurimis aliis. It will be a grand coup if it takes place. February 2. Sent off yesterday's work with proofs. Could I do as toughly for a week and many a day I have done more I should be soon out of the scrape. I wrote letters, and put over the day till one, when I went down with Sir James Stuart to see Stuart of Dunearn's pictures now on sale.