SD1763. Frederic Leighton to William Cornwallis Cartwright

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 20, 373 (in part).

Rome via Felice 123.

July 20 [1854]

Dear Cartwright,

I received from you yesterday afternoon a letter which fills me with great and unexpected pleasure. … We have had a most charming winter the centre of which, for me, has been Mrs. Sartoris; oh the snugness of the evenings, the cosy evenings when only the intimes were invited; Browning a most amusing fellow was a great standing dish, also Mr. Ampère a charming old french savant, at one time too there was Thackeray, Mrs. Kemble of course always, Lyons too and Gozze; it was charming and the pic-nics into the environs,—but you are coming yourself—all your friends expect you with pleasure, but none more than your very sincere friend

Fred Leighton

If you have any other commands for me to execute write to me under Mrs Sartoris’ address at the Baths of Lucca, Casino Chiappa, Bagni di Lucca, that will find me all through August, after that till October (when I return) my movements are uncertain.

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Northamptonshire Record Office.

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