SD2438. Octavius Moulton-Barrett to William Surtees Cook

Published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 29, 284 (in part).

Bridge House Abergavenny

Sunday [31 March 1861]

My dear Surtees

Thank you very much for your kind letter I am right glad to hear old Altham is all right I quite envy you your garden alas poor I—I cannnot find a house any where– I have a great weakness for St Mary’s but I think from all I hear it is not worth 1450£ What do you have? Harry has been kind enough to ask me to board but he has at present a madman one Drummond, I think Amelia’s father in Law so he can not have any one with him nor can he leave, so I do not think I shall go– I feel proud you should adopt any plan of mine I hope your kindness will not be unrewarded– We are in most delightful lodgings at present surrounded by household God’s in the shape of Fleas bugs & &c. Storm when he was in Wales took a house for 5 years from one Parrot 5 miles from that house is another lodging to the same man he wants 60£ unfurnished I have offered 50£ if I get it I shall go there at once if I do not I do not know what to do– In your last letter to me you were kind enough to say something about our own dearest Henrietta do not let it distress you, for I do not want anything to remind me of her I have her words looks & actions engraved on my heart forever– With best love to all

your affec Brother

Ocky Barrett

Address: Major. Surtees Cook / Stoke Court / Nr Taunton.

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library, Altham Archive.

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