SD1703. Edward Moulton-Barrett (father) to George Goodin Barrett (1792–1854)

Published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 20, 362–363 (in part).

Wimpole St London

Decr 30. 1853

Dear George

From your neglect of my letters & your evident unwillingness to reply to the purpose of them when you do write, I should not have troubled you with another at least at this time, but the pressing nature of the subject compels me to do so–

It respects your Daughter & the responsibility thrown upon me in spite of my remonstrance of having her under my care– You are aware that at her earnest desire & with your own concurrence she is now with her Aunt in Dublin. I submit then to you that you should make arrangements, if you have at present no other views for her, for her continuance there, where I would hope in a large family of Girls she might form friendships from congenial tastes & see more of society, whereas here my Daughter[’]s pursuits & occupations are so opposite to hers, that she can scarcely be so comfortable as she would otherwise be, were there more agreement of purpose.

However independent of this it is most objectionable to me that Lizzy should be here in a house of young Men; it is not seemly, opposed to the usage of Society & must be put an end to, therefore I hope that you will lose no time in writing desiring her to remain with her Aunt until you may determine upon future plans for her–

I assure you that I have the kindest feelings towards her, & therefore the resolution I have come to as respects her return here is dictated by no other motive than a conviction that I am doing what is right–

I cannot & ought not in my state of health to be called upon to bear the responsibility.

I am, dear George

Yrs truly

E M Barrett

There are other matters on which I should have written to you, but I forbear, as I wish this to engross your whole attention–

Publication: Barrett, p. 135 (in part).

Source: File copy at Eton College.

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