TALBOT9066

Mount Edgcumbe ¹

Feb^y 6^th 1866

My dearest Henry

I am so sorry I could not answer your letter directly - but I have been so dreadfully busy, just at the last, paying hideous bills &c that I really was not able to find time. We go tomorrow to Schill's Hotel ² 1 Albemarle S^t for two or three days - & hope to get off Saturday for Paris, en route to Cannes. I suppose we shall stay 2 or 3 days at Paris - but don't yet know where - Perhaps Hotel Windsor, R. de Rivoli - or Westminster, R. de la Paix - but I believe the Grand Hotel near the Madelaine, is now the best for single men. Charlie ³ is going there, to divert himself with his friend Johnny Bulteel, ⁴ for a week - before resuming his musketry duties - I am very sorry I know of no travelling Servant - but perhaps Schill can recommend one. He is very civil & devoted to me - & was once a courier.

It will be delightful to meet you out there. Pray come. no time for more. Best love to all with you -

Y^r aff^te Sister

Caroline