217. Edward Moulton-Barrett (brother) to EBB
As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 1, 218–219.
[London]
[Postmark: 26 March 1825]
My dearest Bazy
You were no doubt greatly offended at not hearing from me last week, and have I confess paid me in my own coin, by not writing to me this, however I hope somewhat to appease your anger, by assuring you that the omission was quite unpremeditated on my part, for I had actually taken a frank with me on Sunday night with the intention of writing to you on Monday morning when quite unexpectedly we were ordered in to write verses, by which means I was prevented from using my frank. We have been examined twice this week, by Russell and I expect a third will take place next, for the election of præpositi. Tell Arabel how much obliged I was for her most edifying, entertaining, and witty letter, tell her I acknowledge the justice of her complaint in not thanking her for the former one, it was certainly a most unpardonable piece of neglect, but having repented of my inattention I hope I shall soon receive a letter of forgiveness from her. I send you a very beautiful silver remember medal of Lord Byron, which I hope you will value and preserve as it deserves, it struck my fancy last Saturday in Oxford St. from its extreme elegance, and beauty of execution, and a still stronger recommendation was, that I was at a loss to discover which it most resembled Ld Byron, or myself.
You must excuse a long letter today as Jane has been kind enough to invite us to dine with her this evening and go to see Mathews, [1] I am sure you will envy us.
Good bye my dearest Bazy
ever believe me your truly affect
Brozy
I shall expect a doubly long letter next week to compensate for your idleness this.
Love to all.
Addressed and franked by EBB’s uncle on integral page: London March twenty six 1825 / Miss Barrett / Hope End / Ledbury / S M Barrett.
Publication: None traced.
Manuscript: Eton College Library.
1. Charles Mathews (1776–1835), actor. The production was “Mr. Mathews’s Memorandum-Book,” at the Lyceum Theatre. Jane was aunt Jane Hedley.
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