TALBOT4942

Lacock Abbey

Thursday –

My dear Henry

M^r Jennings ¹ called today to ask if you would assist the good people of Lacock in a rejoicing which they propose to have on the occasion of M^r Sotheron’s election ² – There are to be games & feats of dexterity – & prizes of hats & waistcoats to be distributed among a few of the best performers – In the evening a display of fireworks on Bowden Hill ³ – in view of M^r Sotheron’s windows – & of ours M^r Jennings says – Saturday has been fixed – as M^r S. himself will be at home that day – I saw a list of subscriptions – Sir John Awdry ⁴ &c – M^r Jennings himself gives 10/– & all the farmers & shopkeepers &c &c smaller sums – None of the gentry have put down their names for more than 10/– but as only £8– have been raised in all – some of the chief promoters will have to make up the deficiency – The fireworks alone come to about £5– The first idea was to have had a feast – but that was given up as being too expensive & less intellectual. – The present notion appears to me a very good one – if the occasion justifies any kind of merry-making – I hope to have your answer on Saturday morning & I have asked M^r Jennings to call that day –

I am in great hopes you will continue to escape catching a fresh cold now that the weather is so much warmer – We got a little walk this morning early – but it was very showery afterwards – an excellent day for softening gingerbread – I expect you will find it in good order when you come back –

No further news from Margam ⁵. I hope you have written –

Your affectionate

Constance –

Charles ⁶ asked earnestly to go & see you today. –