528.3. John Kenyon to EBB

This late entry would have appeared in The Brownings’ Correspondence, vol. 3.

4. Harley Place

June 11. 1836.

Dear Miss Barrett

Some days since Miss Courtenay wrote to me to this effect or rather these are her words “I am delighted with my Album and all that is in it; and full of gratitude to you and to your friends, who have been so kind about it. Miss Barrett’s little poem is charming. Tell her how very much I am obliged to Her for giving it to me “unasked.” (Your word)– I could not have asked Her, but I am much indebted to you for doing it for me, and to her for so kindly complying.” I have sent the book now to Mr Wordsworth!

—And I am glad She has– I shall be proud to see you in such company; and have told Miss C. that however well the great Poet may succeed in her book, he can do nothing more exquisite in his way that you have there done in yours.–

I meant to have called and told you all this—but have not been able to do so.

I have apologised to my young friend for having given away some copies of the Sea Mew—reminding her that Engravings only make the original more valuable. —By dint of copying and reading—but such verses demand no great dint—I now have the whole distinctly by heart.

Thank your for all the kind things in your note—but your Criticisms or rather admirations of the Friend so please me, and would so have pleased poor Coleridge (for they are wise admirations) that I have stuck them into the book.

The Essay and your letter are to reach Miss Mitford today.

Always truly yours

John Kenyon.

I have few books—but I need not say that as long as you may remain in town all I have are at your service– I will try to find a list of them.

Address, on integral page: To / Miss Barrett / 74. Gloucester Place.

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library.

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