4094. EBB to Frances Mary du Quaire

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 24, 212–213.

[Florence]

10 Novembre [1857] [1]

My dear Mdme du Quaire,

I am ashamed of myself for seeming to neglect your note, though really I did’nt mean it. The fact is I cant answer for anybody’s honesty except my own friend’s, [2] who recommended the man in question & would not have recommended a dishonest man. I think you may venture on him notwithstanding, my friend (who is honest) having allowed me to send him to you– I waited to hear something more precise– But will this do?

Ever most truly yours

Elizabeth Barrett Browning.

I have heard– If you ask for certificates they will be found satisfactory. Seven years in his last place—perfectly trustworthy.

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library.

1. Year supplied by reference to Mme. du Quaire’s presence in Florence. In letter 4089 EBB writes that the du Quaires “have come here for three months on their way to Rome.”

2. Perhaps, EBB refers to Sophia Eckley, who may have released some servants prior to sailing for Egypt.

___________________