SD2068. Journal Entry of William Surtees Cook
As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 24, 258 (in part).
Gloucester
24 April [1857]
Rose at 7. A.M. At 10.20 A.M. the body of my poor father in Law arrived from London—per train—accompanied by—his sons George, Henry, Alfred, Septimus, and Octavius—also his cousin Sam Barrett. Reynolds Peyton of “the Bartons”—Colwall, Herefordshire, joined us, and the melancholy party proceeded in mourning coaches, with hearse &c. to Ledbury Herefordshire (16. miles). Part of Hope-End Park, formerly the seat of Mr Barrett, (where he passed his happiest and best days,) is in the parish of Ledbury. And there, in the old Parish Church, on the North East side near the altar we deposited his earthly remains, in a vault next to his poor wife, Mary, who died in 1827 [sic, for 1828]—and a little daughter Mary. The services of the Church were read by the Rector Mr Watts, and the young men, his sons, wept around. When my time comes—may my two sons be in health and strength and manhood, and lamenting thus, see me lowered to my last resting place! Every shop in Ledbury was closed. This they all felt much. It was a kind, very kind sympathy, considering that a quarter of a century has passed away, since the departed left his fairy dwelling, at Hope-End, for ever.
We did not reach Gloucester, on our return, until half past 8. I was late for the last train, and sent a telegraphic message to dear Henrietta. The fraternity left by a late train, close upon midnight, for London, and I passed another night at the Hotel.
Publication: None traced.
Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library, Altham Archive.
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