383. Henrietta Moulton-Barrett to EBB
As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 2, 257–258.
[Hope End]
[ca. 23 September 1830] [1]
My beloved Ba
These threatening clouds almost determined us not to send your silk gown today but as Anne seems to think that there are other things you will want we run the risk & have ordered the carriage to go to the turnpike to meet the post man– We were very pleased to see your hand writing yesterday the letter was shewn to Papa as I suspect you desired. he seemed pleased with all you said but did not [tell] us his sentiments as to your return on Saturday– I asked him this morning if you might stay till the Agamemnon was finished the reply was “My love did not I tell her she might do as she liked I have nothing more to do with it.” Just as I told you you see– If Mr Boyd wishes you & if you wish to stay longer than Saturday take my advice & stay– We do not want you do not flatter yourself by supposing we do– When will the Agamemnon be finished? [2] that was Papa’s question when I told him what you said at dinner before I shewed him the letter– You see Bummy’s letter. [3] I am afraid she did not receive my last after all & Charlotte has opened it how unfortunate– poor Bummy I suppose will get to Fenham tonight– I am pleased that Miss U– is with her. [4] I shall write upon a long sheet to her tonight & send it to you to finish tomorrow– Bro had a stupid party I think at the Webbs– Write tomorrow if you do not come home. Soon perhaps we shall honour you by a visit– Papa is in good spirits & so are we all– I think Arabel has told you more than I can do now as the carriage is waiting Sam drives but I shall not go as it is too windy. Mrs Selwyn [5] is better.
Ever beloved Ba
Most affectionate Henrietta
Address, on integral page: Miss Barrett.
Publication: None traced.
Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library and Armstrong Browning Library, Altham Archive.
1. A response to the previous letter.
2. According to a memorandum made by Boyd (SD724), it was finished on 27 September, EBB having read to him more than 1,000 lines in six days.
3. Dated 21 September (SD732) and posted at Warrington, en route from Ireland to her home near Newcastle-on-Tyne. Bummy had been visiting her sisters Charlotte and Frances Butler.
4. Miss Uniack, said in Bummy’s letter to be “not so young but very amiable, well appointed & sensible.” She was going to stay at Fenham with Bummy and her brother.
5. The wife of Congreve Selwyn, the Ledbury surgeon.
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