24. Charles St.

Monday August 3^rd 1863

My dear Uncle Henry

Mamma has desired me to write you one line in her stead as she is so frightfully busy preparing to leave London. We go Wednesday to M^t E. – Friday to Cotehele & although she cannot yet positively say on what day she will be able to go to Melbury, she thinks it will certainly be either Wednesday or Thursday next day week. – As soon as ever she has settled she will let you know, – but it depends upon the time Valletort will be able to give us at Cotehele. –

The Ilchesters come to town to-morrow, when Mamma hopes to see them. –

The Vals left town on Saturday. London is quite empty & looks horrid: all the shutters shut everywhere. –

I am afraid I can write no more now, as I also have a good deal to do. –

I remain, dear Uncle Henry Y^r very affec^te

Ernestine Edgcumbe