[printed notepaper, banner over an encircled star:]
Speddoch
October 17th 1859.
My dear Papa,
I have been constantly of late putting off writing to you, as I wished to be able to tell you that I was sure at last to have dear Rosamond and Mamie here – They have now positively promised to be here either tomorrow or Wednesday – and start for Lacock on the Monday after. You must have become quite anxious to see them there by this time but I am very glad they had resolution enough to give Speddoch another chance before going South, as it would be a long journey for Mamie to undertake at another time if she were to come on purpose. The weather has at last got quite fine again, and the autumnal foliage makes the country look so pretty, that I am quite glad that it should have some admirers while it is in perfection – I suppose you heard all about our visit to Drumlanrig and all the people we saw there; three of whom talked about you – The duchess, Lady Emily Foley and Sir Roderick Murchistoun. The two former, however, only spoke of meeting you a long time ago. Since that, we have been at Dabton again, to meet two cousins – Col. Kennedy & his bride, who was a Miss Cust – niece to the late Earl – Col. K used to Know Speddoch and came here when a child so they coming [sic] over today to see it again – and leave us tomorrow morning – so you see I am getting quite accustomed to see company! – Have you heard what name the Valletorts little girl is to have? I wrote to aunt Caroline some time ago, but she has not yet answered my letter. I hope it will have her name, and not be called Victoria, unless it is absolutely necessary to give it the name of its royal godmother – How is everything going on at Lacock? and what colour is the carriage now? I am curious to Know if you had it done at Chippenham or Bath – please tell me when you write, and also if the leaves are falling faster than usual this year which I fancy they do here
From your affecte daughter
Matilda. –
[envelope:, flap printed with banner over an encircled star:]
H. F. Talbot Esqre
Lacock Abbey
Chippenham
Wiltshire-