Chippenham
16 Jan: 1865
Dear Sir,
I have just been to Lacock – Several trees were blown down and others injured by the Storm on Saturday– <1> but nothing of any great consequence – Two or three of the Elms which were marked for sale have fallen. I will attend the Auction and buy in any Timber which may not realize a fair price. I think the felling the old Yew trees will be an improvement though I always look with regret at the loss of fine old Timber.
Mrs Fry is very anxious to retire from business at Lady day <2>in favor of her son who has carried it on for the benefit of the family since his fathers death– I think you cannot do better than accept him as your tenant (from year to year only) as he is a very good farmer and a very obliging neighbour, as well as most punctual in payment of his rent.
I remain Yours obliged
West Awdry
[envelope:]
H.F. Talbot Esq.
13 Gt. Stuart Street
Edinburgh
Notes:
1. A hurricane, particularly affecting the north, started developing the evening of Friday the 13th and gained full force by Saturday.
2. Lady Day is one of the traditional English quarter days, the Feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin, on 25 March.