SD1432. Mary Cook to Henrietta Cook
Published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 16, 2p7 (in part).
Whitehall
April 18th [1850] [1]
My dear Henrietta,
I take the first opportunity my weak state of health affords me, to write to you, to offer you and my dear brother my most sincere congratulations on your marriage and every good wish for the speedy removal of all your anxiety in regard to some of those you have left behind—after so many years of trouble and trial, I can assure you, I feel most thankful that you and my dear brother are now so truly happy, and that you seem to be able to manage so well– Mama has just received such a kind charming note from Mrs Farrer, and as she thinks it will be a great gratification to you, she desires me to enclose it for your perusal—will you kindly return it?
I was in a very suffering state, when William’s kind and interesting letter reached me, but I am now thank God, much better, tho’ still very weak, and unfit for almost any occupation– Dr Todd says I have had a very strange complaint, and have narrowly escaped having erysipelas, but there is no permanent cure for me as long as I continue to reside in London. I ought to live in some dry bracing air, we will hope I shall not be here as a resident, many years longer. Miss Ridley has kindly begged me to come and stay a little time, with her as soon as her nephew and niece leave her–
John dined with Alfred Surtees yesterday, where he met some of your wedding party, your brother Henry was also there– John saw a pattern of the dinner service that Alfred Surtees is so kindly going to present to you. Aubone Surtees has written a letter of congratulation to you, I hope the letter has reached as you have never mentioned it–
All join in kindest love to you and William.
Believe me
Ever my dear Henrietta
Yr affecte Sister,
M. Cook
The Addams called here yesterday, but all were out excepting myself and I am not yet strong enough to see visitors– The Guardian has been sent to you today. The appointment to Halstead is very good, and does our Bishop great credit.
Address: Mrs Surtees Cook / 2. Oriel Terrace / Weston Super Mare / Somersetshire.
Publication: None traced.
Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library, Altham Archive.
1. Year provided by postmark.
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