Letter from John William Dawson, Pictou, Nova Scotia, Edinburgh, to Margaret A. Y. Mercer, 6 Windmill Street
Describes the wreck of the ship Isabella. Remarks tat a cargo of several tons of West India conches was brought into his father's wharf.

Letter from John William Dawson, Pictou, Nova Scotia, to Margaret A. Y. Mercer, 6 Windmill Street, Edinburgh
Sends her some American magazines. Tells Margaret that she excites him greatly and that he is very interested in her.

Letter from John William Dawson, Pictou, Nova Scotia, Edinburgh, to Margaret A. Y. Mercer, 6 Windmill Street
Sends Margaret and Marion a few stuffed birds. Gives detailed instructions on how to display them.

Letter from John William Dawson, Pictou, Nova Scotia, to Margaret A. Y. Mercer, 6 Windmill Street, Edinburgh
Comments on Margaret's refusal of his proposal. However, he will remain a good friend. Hopes that the Bell's children are well.

Letter from John William Dawson, Pictou, Nova Scotia, Edinburgh, to Margaret A. Y. Mercer, 6 Windmill Street
Discusses gardening. Describes her letters as beautiful.

Letter from John William Dawson, Pictou, Nova Scotia, Edinburgh, to Margaret A. Y. Mercer, 6 Windmill Street
Has not heard from her in four months. Describes fireworks in Pictou to celebrate the Queen's baby boy.

Letter from John William Dawson, Pictou, Nova Scotia, to Margaret A. Y. Mercer, 6 Windmill Street, Edinburgh
Comments on receiving Mr. (Peter) Bell's letter. Describes a recent visit to Prince Edward Island. Remarks on the arrival of Mr. (Charles) Lyell and his wife in Pictou. Describes his geological excursions wit Mr. Lyell.

Letter from John William Dawson, Pictou, Nova Scotia, to Margaret A. Y. Mercer, 6 Windmill Street, Edinburgh
Encloses a parcel for Mr. Boyd. Speaks of his desire to see Margaret again.

Letter from John William Dawson, Pictou, Nova Scotia, to Margaret A. Y. Mercer, 6 Windmill Street, Edinburgh
Describes his short journey to the East Ward of Pictou. Comments on 'The Daughters of England' by Ellis. Asks how Mr. Rose, the mineralogist, is getting on.

Letter from John William Dawson, Pictou, Nova Scotia, to Margaret A. Y. Mercer, 6 Windmill Street, Edinburgh
Comments on Margaret's serious illness, and is happy that she is recovering. States that he has been writing some articles on agricultural chemistry. Remarks that he is sending gifts which she will be pleased to give the young Bells. Describes the flowers.