Septr 27. –
My dear Henry
We did not show ourselves to the party yesterday, because they were all strangers, & Mr Bowles <1> did not come to introduce them. – The Lady’s Father (who is blind), her Mother 3 sisters & brothers accompanied them. – One Lady fainted in the Cloisters & the young gentleman was pulled off his horse at the entrance gate, by the impetuosity of another Steed which he was leading for a lady. – Wright <2> was delighted with his office of Cicerone <3> & delivered several civil messages from the party some of whom had known the Abbey in Mr Grosset’s <4> time & were delighted with your recent improvements <5>. No desire was expressed to see the Photogenic Drawings, so that I was not called upon to do the honors of them. – I enclose them as you desired & hope they will not suffer from the journey. –
I shall not forget your charge about keeping the children <6> within the gates, while the fever continues to prevail – Mr Kenrick <7> is of the same opinion & desired me this morning not to let them stir from home –
I hope you will find time for visiting some houses at Windsor, for I like the idea of going there very much.
I have forwarded your letters on ‘her Majesty’s Service’ to Sackville Street. <8>
Your affectionate
Constance
Notes:
1. Rev William Lisle Bowles (1762–1850), Wiltshire poet & antiquary.
2. James Wright, footman to the Talbots & Constable for Lacock.
3. That is, guide.
4. John Rock Grosett (1783-1866), MP; Jamaican Parliament; occupant of Lacock Abbey until summer 1827.
5. After WHFT returned to Lacock Abbey in the 1820s he made a substantial number of changes, particularly to the south front, including the installation of the famous Oriel Window.
6. Ela Theresa Talbot (1835–1893), WHFT’s 1st daughter, and Rosamond Constance ‘Monie’ Talbot (1837–1906), artist & WHFT’s 2nd daughter.
7. Dr George Cranmer Kenrick, surgeon living at The Grove, Melksham.
8. 31 Sackville Street, London residence of the Feildings, often used as a London base by WHFT.