Markeaton <1>
26th Novr
Dear Mr F.
I confidently expect Parliament will be dissolved on Tuesday the 4th and consequently I shall then have to go to Lacock immediately – Would you like to come and assist me in the Election, <2> it would be very pleasant for me but at the same time if you are agreeably engaged at Moreton <3> I can manage very well alone. Perhaps the bustle will amuse you, besides the interest you feel in my success – I hope no Conservative with a long purse will take the field at the last moment – I mean to spend next to nothing, so they may elect me on that principle if they please, or not at all.
Constance <4> was much pleased with your necklace – Its matching the Sévigné <5> my mother <6> gave her we are inclined to consider as something more than accidental.
Yours affly
Henry
Capt. Feilding R.N
Moreton
Dorchester
Dorset
Notes:
1. Markeaton Hall, Derbyshire, NW of Derby: home of the Mundy family.
2. On 10 December 1832, WHFT stood for the borough of Chippenham.
3. Moreton, Dorset: home of the Frampton family.
4. Constance Talbot, née Mundy (1811–1880), WHFT’s wife.
5. Sevigne Bow, bow, often a brooch. [See Doc. No: 02472].
6. Lady Elisabeth Theresa Feilding, née Fox Strangways, first m Talbot (1773–1846), WHFT’s mother.
7. 31 Sackville Street, London residence of the Feildings, often used as a London base by WHFT.