TALBOT2512

London

10^th Dec^r Monday

My Dear Henry

Your letter was the first intimation I had that Lord Ilchester ¹ or Lady Harriot F. ² intended us a visit. I suppose Lord I. goes to the Ball at Bowood, ³ as I have heard a rumour of from Theresa, ⁴ and projects taking us for a day in his way back, for he never stays longer, which would be after the time you mention. I do not think Constance ⁵ would long consider them as Strangers, they are both so facile à vivre. ⁶ I did not say much of her, How could I? I saw so little. I could only say she is very handsome & very pleasing. Further I know not at present, because her Mother ⁷ talked all. The only tête à tête I had with Constance was between Queen Ann S^t & this, when I brought her to Caroline, ⁸ during which she was disposed to be silent, which was extremely natural. I went one morning with them shopping, but M^rs M. has certain attachments to certain old fashioned Modistes which it was not for me to combat. I could only recommend mine, which I did, and then la madre ⁹ must decide. My couturière who made all Caroline’s things tells me to day that she has been sent for to Queen Ann S^t which I am glad of as I am of course interested in the becomingness of Constance’s Trousseau, & think it a great pity the money should not be well laid out. I offered to go with them again any day – but have heard no more. Caroline is to call to day if she goes out – but the Weather is likely to be too bad. I wonder whether it pours at Chippenham ¹⁰ as it does here

affly

E F

Henry Fox Talbot Esq^r
Laycock abbey
Chippenham
Wilts