Lacock Abbey
Friday July 5th
My dear Henry,
Will you get the enclosed directed to our Cousin Mary? <1>– She wants me to order for her a Spanish Saddle, but as she has not given me sufficient directions, I am obliged to write for more. – If you have not already bought the ring for Matilda, <2> I need not trouble you now, for I have succeeded in getting one from Devizes – the weather promises to be perfect for the Horticultural Show tomorrow – I am so glad you will be able to go. – I believe Laura <3> was to return to Queen Anne St tomorrow (Saturday) – so if you chance to see Harriot <4> after that, pray bring me all particulars about Laura – I cannot report much about the garden, for I can scarcely find time to look at the flowers in the evening, & I do not venture in while the Sun is bright – I sowed the seeds a day or two after you went away – The children <5> had a charming play with the hay in the Stew-ground yesterday & the day before – but it is almost too hot even for that. –
Your affectionate
Constance.
H. F. Talbot Esqre
Notes:
1. Mary Thereza Talbot (1795–1861), WHFT’s cousin.
2. Matilda Caroline Gilchrist-Clark, ‘Tilly’, née Talbot (1839–1927), WHFT’s 3rd daughter.
3. Laura Mundy (1805–1842), WHFT’s sister-in-law.
4. Harriot Georgiana Mundy, née Frampton (1806-1886), WHFT’s cousin & sister-in-law.
5. Ela Theresa Talbot (1835–1893), WHFT’s 1st daughter, Rosamond Constance ‘Monie’ Talbot (1837–1906), artist & WHFT’s 2nd daughter and Matilda Caroline Gilchrist-Clark.