1423. Richard Hengist Horne to EBB

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 8, 30–31.

[London]

Friday Morng [Postmark: 3 November 1843]

I do not beg a 1000 pardons, because you know, my Express was chiefly owing to my care for you. Do not be alarmed. I have stopped it, no doubt. For myself, I never named it to anyone. My friend Reade’s note, however, though he does not name you (and talks of it all in a low whisper[)]—is still not to be mistaken. However, I have stopped it. Besides, I will effectually prevent discovery by style. Moreover anything [that] would too distinctly indicate your hand (which I know, and some others as yet) I will make it look like mine. Audacious, and happy thought! Do not be vexed—but soothed—and—finally—smoothed down, O vexed Bermoothes! [1]

Very truly

R.H.H.

P.S. I will perhaps avail myself of your kind acquiescence as soon as you are a little “lulled.” I never named you to Miss Mitford nor to Reade—even in the Express begging silence on such questions of who writes.

Address: Miss E. B. Barrett / 50 Wimpole St. / Cavendish Sq.

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Pierpont Morgan Library.

1. Cf. The Tempest, I, 2, 229.

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