5983. RB to George Grove

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 32, 270.

19. Warwick Crescent,

Upper Westbourne Terrace. W

Nov: 29, ’67.

Dear Mr Grove,

What will you think of me for not thanking you at once for your kindness,—even if I had to say at my leisure that I was very sorry to be unable to profit by it? I am at present wholly immersed in work, and wanting to get my chin above it by a set time,—I dare do nothing so pleasant as go out except in the neighbourhood: yet I felt so vexed at finding it impossible to go on Thursday or Saturday that I put your letter,—all but the kindness of it,—as far away from my mind as I could,—and too far, as the delay proves.

In the Spring, I hope to indemnify myself for present privations, and shall certainly see Mrs Grove [1] & thank her for remembering me.

Ever truly yours

Robert Browning.

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Carl H. Pforzheimer Collection.

1. Harriet Grove (née Bradley, 1827–1914), fifth daughter of Charles Bradley (1789–1871) and his wife, Catherine (née Shepherd, 1788–1831). She married George Grove in 1851.

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