Greta Bank
Saturday night –
My dear Henry
I write a line just to wish you good bye & a pleasant journey. – I imagine I shall scarcely have time to write to you more than once while you are on your travels, as you intend to limit your absence to three weeks – so if nothing particular occurs at Greta Bank, I will not risk more than one or two letters, lest they should arrive too late at their address, and follow your from place to place – But you will have much to tell us, & will probably write often. – After so much dark, dismal weather, it is to be hoped you will be favored with something better. – Today was mild & pleasant although grey & mournful – We went over to the Island & walked all over Mr Marshall’s house & grounds; the family being still absent. – The great error consists in the Island being over-crowded with trees & shrubs – in other respects it is a beautiful spot: and the fitting up of the house is in very good taste. After regaining Terra-Firma, we drove to Lairthwaite, and called on Mrs Stanger. – There we were admitted, and saw Mr & Mrs Stanger, and the 2 sons and daughters of the latter, of the name of Murray. They received us in a very friendly way – & Mr Stanger was as agreeable as usual. We extended our drive to Oakfield, but saw nobody there. They were already dressing for dinner. Before luncheon we received the Miss Langtons & their 2 youngest brothers, whom they brought to make acquaintance with Charles, thinking he was come from school. Mr Wilson has had the views of the fortified towns you sent, displayed in the reading room, and he expressed himself much obliged – Since we received your approval of our proposed party, we have been trying to find out what sort of thing people like – as we think they ought to do something – but we are assured they neither care for dancing or anything else; and that when invited to an evening party it is customary for them to amuse themselves. – So we shall end by having a very stupid <illeg>, I dare say. –
Sunday morning –
I suppose if I write to Turin in about a week or ten days, it will be soon enough – Here is a fine looking morning – so I hope the weather is going to improve. Mlle Amélina & the girls send their adieux – with many wishes that your journey may prove interesting –
Your affectionate
Constance.
July 2d
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