[monogram: SP]

Melbury
Aug^t 28^th

Dear Henry Talbot

We are very pleased to hear your good news of Mathilda [sic], as it must be a very great source of pleasure to her; and also to you all that she is doing so well after the Birth of her Son: I did not know of the expectations though I concluded by M^rs Talbot’s remaining in Scotland there was some reason for her wishing to be near Mathilda – and also to M^rs Talbot, & & [sic] y^r Daughters –

William has been rather looking for a letter from you, to tell him of all the curious Flowers that you met with on your Tour – We have only just come back from a round of visits in Wales, where the weather was not good – Now the summer has really begun, and all seem happy at the prospect of a fine Harvest –

We are staying here till the middle of Sep^r when we go into Lincoln^sh & probably take Markeaton in the way.

This week I am expecting my married Brother, I am most curious to see my Sister-in-Law, I hear she is very pretty, & in every way a great addition to our Family –

With W^m’s kind regards –

Believe me Y^rs Truly
Sophia Ilchester