Correspondence

5902.  Helena Faucit Martin to RB

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 32, 200.

31 Onslow Square

May 13th /67.

My dear Mr Browning,

A friend of ours—a very old friend of Mr Martin’s—Professor Blackie, is very anxious to be introduced to you. [1] I will say no more, because—“I am sure you knew him well enough,” & will only thank me for bringing you nearer. Do you never come into this neighbourhood that we do not see you? I hope it is so, and I hope more that it will not always remain so. With our united very kind regards believe me dear Mr Browning always sincerely yours

Helena F. Martin.

Address: Robert Browning Esq / 19 Warwick Crescent / Harrow Road / W.

Publication: BBIS-2, p. 10.

Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library.

1. Blackie called on RB two days later and wrote of the meeting to his wife: “He received me with the greatest frankness … He is an active, soldier-like, direct, rather stout little man—a fine contrast to the meditative ponderosity of Tennyson” (see SD2901). Blackie also remarked on RB’s owl.

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