5091. RB to Henrietta Tindal

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 30, 101.

19. Warwick Crescent, Harrow Road.

June 23. ’62.

Dear Mrs Acton Tindal, [1]

It is hard to refuse so much kindness,—but that kindness will understand & forgive. The day you mention was the worst day of my life, [2] last year, & you would get nothing of me (if ever there is anything) could I try & go to you.

There are better days, however,—one of them will let me have the pleasure I put by this time, I hope.

With best respects to Mr Tindal,

Believe me,

Yours very sincerely

Robert Browning

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Eton College Library.

1. Henrietta Euphemia Tindal (née Harrison, 1817–79), poet and novelist, wife of Acton Tindal (1811–80), was a friend of Mary Russell Mitford and is mentioned in earlier letters of the edition. The Tindals are listed in the Brownings’ address book of this period (AB-4) at “Manor House, Aylesbury.”

2. RB may be declining, as in the preceding letter, an invitation for Saturday, 28 June, or one for the next day, the 29th, the anniversary of EBB’s death.

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