TALBOT6919

Greta Bank
Monday Feb 20.

My dear Henry

I received your letter on Saturday – and we all rejoice to learn by it that M^r Blomfield has accepted the Curacy & that M^r John Paley is consequently discomfited. – We regret very much the loss of Isaac Banks –he was a good workman & a very civil man – and I understand he has left a young family. –

We are much relieved to hear that you have not been too uncomfortable at Lacock – and certainly as regarded the clerical changes your séjour there could not have been better timed.

I do not think it will be adviseable to get an assistant for George of the kind you suggest – he will be able to manage for this time – but for other general reasons, I shall be glad when Goodwin returns – There has been an explosion of tempers in the other Head – and I believe from all I can gather, that Goodwin’s presence is a slight check upon her – I have been obliged to interfere, and insist on her acting henceforth in a more Xtian spirit – I know not yet whether this will have a lasting effect, – but for the moment things are going on better. –

Our little Gipsy came home to us on Saturday – Sir John Woodford walked over with her himself. We were much astonished and much honored by his visit – but we think he has no knowledge of canine ailments – for he pronounced her to be quite well. Whereas we find her so changed that it grieves us to see her – Our consolation is that M^cDonald is very kind to her & seems to know how she should be treated. He says it is evidently the distemper – but he thinks she will not be any worse than she is now. –

Have you procured for your girls that ‘American Arctic Expedition’? – You made a note of it I believe –

Matilda had a letter from Charles yesterday – he is enthusiastic about the preparations for War. –

Your affectionate
Constance. –