SD494. Ann Mason to Mrs. Ogle

Published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 1, 336 (in part).

[ ]

[ca.1825] [1]

Now as it is your birthday I write to you I love you as well as Henny My dear Mrs Ogle you are as fine as a Peacok with its beautiful feathers on but your house-maid Ann is not half so fine She has only got an old apron and a gown on and a brush and Broom sweeping and dusting about I should think that there is a great difference Is there not my dear Mrs Ogle you go and visit your relations as you are grand your relations must be fine I have no relations to visit I am like a beggar girl Only I dont beg about as beggar girls do but I can assure you My dear Mrs Ogle that I must finish this letter your very affectionate servant house-maid Ann

Address, on integral page: To / My dearest Mrs Ogle / On her birthday.

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Berg Collection.

1. Ann Mason (1805–89), of Old Colwall, was in service to the Barretts for thirteen years, first at Hope End and then Sidmouth, 1823–1835.

___________________