TALBOT335

Lacock Abbey
June 10.

My dear Henry

Thanks for your letter ¹ rec^d yesterday – and for telling me that you are better. – I pitied you for having to wait so long at Marlborough ² & then again at Thatcham ³ – but these are inconveniences which you cannot certainly avoid except by traveling in your own carriage. – I rejoice in dear Caroline’s ⁴ new honours since the appointment gives so much pleasure to you all – I cannot help looking a little to the other side of the picture & pity her for her loss of freedom. – But she is found to shine in every situation, & a character like hers should not be buried even in shades of M^t Edgcumbe! ⁵

Matilda ⁶ is poorly again with her teeth – and as the day is fine & the Witsuntide festivities are over I am going to take the children a drive under the guidance of Pullen. ⁷ Marian ⁸ & I found him so very careful in driving, that I am sure you cannot object.–

The Pathfinder ⁹ arrived this morning with a bill enclosed – but no letters have come for you at all. –

I think it will be an excellent plan to provide some twine for Joseph ¹⁰ to employ his leisure moments instead of running so much into the village – There is a particular sort made for this purpose I imagine – and he will also require the necessary implements – for making the nets.

Y^r aff^te
Constance.

I hope you will have a fine Saturday for the Horticultural.

It is reported to me that white muslin is now worn for Ladies’ mourning dresses – I wish you would ask Lady Elisabeth ¹¹ whether it is correct. You know my fondness for white.