SD2805. Mary Altham Altham to William Surtees Altham
As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 32, 344 (in part).
7. Delamere Terrace
Decbr 26th /65–
Dearest Papa;
I received the money order, yesterday, thanks very much for it. I have just been out to change it– I do not know whether Altham told you that I am going to have Peni’s French master, once or twice a week– He will be here in about a quarter of an hour– I feel so tremendously nervous; but I believe he is the most good-natured man possible—and it will be capital for me to get on with my French–
You cannot think what beautiful Xmas presents I have had. Uncle Robert gave me a most beautiful book, a selection of Poems by poor Aunt Ba—it is quite a new book—it only came out last Thursday, or Friday–
Aunt Boo gave me a most beautiful (here comes the master I am afraid,) bottle for Attar of Roses—& Charlie gave me a little penknife– I like Monsieur Lemaître, (the French master)—very much he has a most wonderful way of teaching, he writes his own Grammar–
Uncle Ocky, Aunt Maria, Uncle Robert, and Peni, dine here this evening; & Sir James and Lady Carmichael come after dinner. So there is another late dinner for me! I suppose Altham & Teddy went out hunting yesterday. Oh! no, I forgot yesterday was Xmas day, so I suppose there was no hunting yesterday– I go every Sunday to Church with Uncle Ocky, and Aunt Maria, last Sunday the latter did not go, but Uncle Ocky and I went, and we met Uncle Alfred, and Aunt Lizzie, who were staying at the Palmer Chapman’s; they came on with us to Delamere Terrace to Luncheon–
I suppose the Post will be going out directly so I must finish;
With best love to all and wishing you all a very merry Xmas
I remain dearest Papa
Ever your affecate daughter
M.A.A.
Address: Major Altham, / Stoke Court, / Near Taunton, / Somerset.
Publication: None traced.
Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library, Altham Archive.
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