Chippenham
30 Jan: 1863
Dear Sir,
I have arranged every thing with Wilkins <1> for the Tea party, so as to include all who can possibly have any claim to be invited; I have found it necessary to extend the Dinner invitations to 30. instead of twenty as I at first suggested – We revere the usual order of things as to time – fixing the Tea party at 3. the Dinner at 5. I thought you would like Mr Blomfield <2> to be invited and have accordingly done so. You shall have a Report of the proceedings – You will I am sure be sorry to hear of the serious illness of Captn Gladstone <3> – He is said to be a little better to-day. We have sustained a great loss from the death of Archdeacon Drury – He will be very much missed in this neighbourhood, and County generally. I am glad to hear a better Account of Lord Lansdowne <4> – to-day – You have no doubt heard of his illness – arising from a fall met with a few days ago.
I remain dear Sir Yours obliged
West Awdry.
[envelope:]
H. F. Talbot Esq
11 Gt. Stuart Street
Edinburgh
Notes:
1. George Wilkins (b. 1814), gardener at Lacock.
2. Arthur Blomfield (b. 1827), curate of Lacock.
3. Captain John Neilson Gladstone (1807–1863), MP.
4. Henry Petty Fitzmaurice, 3rd Marquess of Lansdowne (1780–1863), MP, WHFT’s uncle, who died the very next day – 31 Jan 1863.