4 Circus - Friday
My dear Henry
Mr Menteath called on the day that I received your last letter, and when the post also brought Professor (or Canon) Swainson’s little book on the Athannasian Creed – I know it was a one of the subjects that especially interest Mr Menteath; and on shewing him the book he eagerly caught at the notion that I proposed to lend it to him – Of course I said he was welcome to take it, though we had only that morning received it – accordingly he expressed many scruples, but finally carried it off – but wonderful to relate, he has already returned it with many thanks! I don’t think he can have read it with much attention – but however it delighted him to have it all the same – I am afraid you must be greatly disgusted at this dark cold weather – thoroughly dreary, altho’ the absence of wind is something in its favor – We expect Charles back here tomorrow – he complains greatly of the darkness in London. – Matilda writes that her Pictures were received at the Edinburgh Exhibition, which pleased her much – The family health seems to continue fairly good – with the exception of poor Miss Clark: whose great & encreasing feebleness gives them much anxiety – I did not understand that they had recalled Mrs Maxwell who is visiting in Galloway – but I must say that I think she should have taken charge of her Aunt from the time that her health began to fail –
Your affectionate
Constance
[envelope:]
H. F. Talbot Esqr.
Lacock Abbey
Chippenham