SD1736. Edward George Barrett to Edward Moulton-Barrett (father)

Published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 20, 368 (in part).

The Retreat

May 5. 1854

My dear Mr Barrett

You will not be surprised to hear of that which I have now to tell—my dear father’s death– It took place on Monday last, at 7 P.M. “so easily, so quietly, so happily, that his attendants could hardly believe that he had ceased to breathe”– It is thus that his kind & most attentive friend, Mr A. Bravo, writes– My father had expressed to me his desire to be laid by the side of his brother in the burial ground at Cinnamon Hill– I obtained Storm’s acquiescal in this request, & it has been done accordingly– Immediately on receiving the intelligence I came here, intending to proceed to C.H. for the purpose of being present at the funeral; by Storm’s advice I have spared myself the painful task– I have yet had no opportunity of examining any papers, but my father had previously told me that he intended to make no will, but would write down all he wished done, & trust to me for carrying out his desires as far as my power extended–

Of my own feeling I need say nothing—but during the long course of my dear father’s illness I have received from all I met testimonies very grateful to me of the esteem in which he was held by those among whom he dwelt–

I am, my dear Mr Barrett,

Yrs most sincerely

E G Barrett

Docket: E Barrett / Recd 5th / Ansd June 15th

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Eton College Library.

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