SD2800. Arabella Moulton-Barrett to William Surtees Altham
Listed in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 32, 343.
[London]
[early December 1865] [1]
My dearest Surtees,
My special object in writing to you now, is to ask a favor, which I am sure you will grant if you can. It is quite two years ago & rather more, I think, since Mary paid me a visit, and I am longing to have her. I feel I am entitled to a little share of her, & life passes quickly. Now if you will agree to spare her to me for a little, how can it be managed? In all my thoughts on the matter, I have said to myself, “Now Surtees won’t let Mary be with me during Altham’s holidays.” Is that the case? Well then, would you let her come before—& if she must be at home when Altham is there, I thought he might, when the holidays begin, come here for her & spend a couple of days if he would, with me, & then they could both go home together. Is not Lizzie going to you—& could not Mary travel with her? I know Lizzie will branch off at Reading—but I would send some one to Reading to meet Mary. You will say “How can Mary spare so much time from her lessons?” In the long run, it won’t make much difference to her, losing a week or two– Besides which, she could bring her music & practise—& she & I would do some little things together & therefore I don’t think any thing would be lost– But there now! I have made my request—I have said my say—& I leave the matter in yours & Bell’s hands, trusting to your kindness. Thank Bell, with my love for her letter.
What awful accounts from Jamaica! [2] It was a great relief to know that dear Set & Storm’s properties are safe– I was disappointed that the Taunton paper didn’t report your speech– No time to add more– I shall anxiously expect yr answer.
Ever yr affecte
Arabel M. Barrett
Publication: None traced.
Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library, Altham Archive.
1. Dated by reference to Mary Altham’s visit to Arabella of 7 December 1865 through 20 February 1866.
2. Insurrections occurred in Jamaica during November 1865.
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