My dear Talbot
Many thanks for the little offspring, the promise of whose arrival was known to me before although it’s <sic> name sex and character were a secret. Though not surprised at it’s <sic> arrival, I assure you that Emily <1> and myself were very much pleased with it, particularly with the series of ill-boding ditties, which are what they ought to be simple picturesque and touching. I am sorry and glad to hear from Strangways that you leave town to-morrow; sorry because I shall hardly find you at home to-day and glad because I hope you will put in a good word for me at Chippenham <2> where I had a very successful canvass, going down with Mr Neeld <3> and having many connections with the neighbourhood Still as I much wish to be consider’d the friend of the tenants of Laycock abbey. You see you will hardly escape a visit from Emily and myself in the Autumn.
I am, Dear Talbot
very faithfully yours
Philip Pusey
Notes:
1. Lady Emily Pusey, née Herbert.
2. Chippenham, Wiltshire: largest town near Lacock, 3 miles N.
3. Joseph Neeld (1789–1856), MP & botanist.