The author, John M. Murray, writes to Honorable William H. Murray about their shared Murray clan heritage in Scotland. He provides a brief history of the Murray clan, mentioning their connection to the Dukes of Athol and their royal lineage. John M. Murray recounts his own Scottish roots and immigration to the United States, where he worked as a postmaster and in the mercantile business. He expresses pride in his heritage and interest in further information on the Murray clan. John M. Murray also shares anecdotes about Queen Victoria's visits to Scotland and encourages William H. Murray to visit Scotland as well.