SD2853. Sarianna Browning to Joseph Milsand
As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 32, 352 (in part).
[London]
Nov. 30. [1866] [1]
My dear Friend,
You will be sorry to hear that poor Pen has been extremely unwell—the face-ache got so bad that we were obliged to send for the doctor, who says it proceeds from the stump of the broken tooth, which is in a horrible state of inflammation,—probably he caught cold in it,—and the doctor was afraid it was gathering into an ab[s]cess—the poor boy’s sufferings have been dreadful. I think however, this morning that there will not be a gathering, as the pain and swelling are subsiding, but the doctor will tell us when he calls. Of course all lessons are suspended though Pen kept up bravely as long as he could articulate—by the bye, he asked me just this instant to give his love to you and tell you the owl is quite well. As for myself, I have a bad cold now, but at the beginning of the week I discharged a great many social duties in the shape of calls—much as I dislike them. I went to the Corkrans—took Pussy the cake which had been destined for Claire– Mrs C. seemed in good spirits, said her husband was going over to Paris for a week, very soon, to give evidence about a debt of the St Nazaire company—his expenses would be paid, and it would be a little change for him. Her book had not yet found a publisher. Sutton had crossed over to Ireland very comfortably on the night which was here so stormy. William had been receiving assistance from his father and family, and talked of coming back. While I was there Capt P. called—the mother opened the door to him, but he did not come in—probably because I was there—and I heard Henriette who had her bonnet on—tell him she would meet him in ten minutes.
I called on Lady William Russell who was very agre[e]able—she is timid at the project demonstration which is to take place in the Park next Monday,—and as none of her sons are with her just now, Robt has promised to spend the evening with her, and the night, if needs be. Called also on Mrs Procter who lamented having missed you. Mrs Forster paid her a visit and said how much she and her husband were vexed at not seeing you. By the bye, the other Mr Forster, the M.P. is Arnold’s brother-in-law—he married Dr Arnold’s daughter. Robert saw Leighton and his new house yesterday—the latter is magnificent. Leighton had just returned from Florence, and told Robt the dear old city was being spoiled—the old walls pulled down—all so altered that it pained him to stay there.
Arabel Barrett has been very unwell. She has her brother Alfred and his wife now with her. I called also on Me de Mussy & Mrs Benson but luckily found them out. Dispatched at the same time some owing visits, and felt relieved when they were over. By the way, no less than six or seven ladies who called on me all wore seal-skin jackets—in England when a thing is in fashion it gets universal in a way you never see abroad. The real seal-skin is extremely expensive. Do tell me if crinolines are in or out in Paris—somebody told me they were worn there wider than ever. Miss Haworth hopes you will call on her, she is always at home on Thursdays– I still talk of going over to Paris during the winter or spring. Do you get the P. Ms? Sometimes I cut off an advertisement sheet when it is over weight. With this letter I send two. The doctor has just called and thinks Pen’s gum will not gather—the pain is less, but he is very weak from want of food, and the pain he has borne. Still, he hope[s] he will be well in a day or two. Good bye. I hope all are well at home. Best love to Claire.
Ever yours truly,
S.B.
Address: Monsieur Milsand / 31, rue. Perronet, / Neuilly. près Paris.
Publication: None traced.
Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library, Joseph Milsand Archive.
1. Year provided by postmark.
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