1840. RB to Henry William Field

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 10, 74–75.

New Cross, Hatcham.

Feb 13. 1845.

My dear Sir,

Mr Carlyle desires me to return you his best thanks for your kindness and trouble. There are a few points in your Copy of the Note which present a little difficulty; and if, by referring to the original or any other authorities, you can clear them up, you will additionally oblige him.

“New Hall” he supposes to be the seat of that name in Essex. “Wallop” may be a money-scrivener, or perhaps a man with land to sell, which Richard is to buy with the £18,000. “Waterhouse” is evidently the man of business. “Burleigh” is an Estate of Olivers not heritably settled on Richard; but whether the Burleigh House near Stamford (once stormed by Oliver in the early part of his career) or which of the other three or four “Burleys,” is a question.

With respect to the Note itself, he would be glad to know, if there is any Address, as “To my beloved Son, R.C. Esq at Hursley: These.”– If the date is from “Whitehall”—and if the Letter W before Burleigh is not rather M—for Magna, Great Burleigh House. Is the word “you” omitted before this letter,—as, “or I shall sell you” [1] &c

I have the honor to be,

My dear Sir,

Your obedient Servant,

R Browning.

H.W. Field Esq

Publication: BC, 10, 74–75 (in part).

Manuscript: Library of Congress.

1. See the preceding letter.

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