TALBOT5212

Lacock Abbey
Tuesday –

My dear Henry

I suppose the dénouement ¹ of all this will be that Horatia ² goes to Gibraltar – since the Talbots ³ have not given it up & Horatia writes today to ask whether Lady Charlotte ⁴ really wishes for her company. – Of course one may calculate pretty certainly on the tone of her answer – Still Horatia manifests more indecision on her side than I was prepared for – as I imagined it all turned on the Talbots keeping to their scheme. – But in whatever manner it may end I do not repent of my spirited decision – I sent Price ⁵ to Clifton ⁶ today to engage a house from next Friday – & if she comes back before post goes I will tell you of her success – M^r Kendrick ⁷ highly approves & thinks that with this help Ela ⁸ will not require her tonic beyond a week – I am glad I did not go with Price myself as the day has been wretchedly wet – but yesterday was charming – & Lady Elisabeth ⁹ cobourged ¹⁰ to M^rs Peck’s after Pullen ¹¹ came back from taking you to the Station – Horatia & I & Wright ¹² attended her & inspected the house & furniture – We think the Howards ¹³ might have made themselves very comfortable there – only perhaps the house is larger than is compatible with snugness – & the quantity of land too small.

Our children ¹⁴ are very happy with the thoughts of Clifton. –

Y^r affectionate
Constance. –

Price is just returned and secured a house with much trouble – Clifton is so full – It is in the Paragon – a situation I fancy will be sheltered & pleasant – 3½ guineas a week – for a fortnight certain & to continue if I think proper –