Welcombe, Stratford upon Avon. - Amused by Elizabeth's letter, and glad Robert is returning so soon. Both Lord Welby and Lord Davey are 'very good talkers', and Lady Davey is 'charming' so their visit has been very pleasant; she tells Caroline that there is a house to be let at Fernhurst called "Ropes"; just built, by a Miss Coats, who now thinks there is 'not enough view & is going to build another'. Lady Davey also says that Blackdown Cottage is very damp and has no foundations; Mrs Frederic Harrison [Ethel Harrison] was 'very ill there with Rheumatic gout' and two people died in the house while they lived there. Likes to think of Elizabeth and Robert both at home again, 'with the good Enticknaps'. S[idney?] Colvin is not coming; she is glad as the 'row in Stratford seems to be growing, & he is in it' while they wish to keep out of it. Was very good to have Elizabeth to visit them; Sir George sends his love, and 'much appreciated' the letter from Robert.
Pensione Palumbo, Ravello, prov. di Salerno. - Explains how the rumour of Fry's death [see also 4/46 and 4/47] spread: it originated from [William] Sharp who told the Grandmonts at Taormina that he had seen an obituary; they then wrote to Helen [Fry], and to Bessie who wired to the Enticknaps who replied this morning that the Frys were both well, and only then told Trevelyan. Hopes the obituary was not that of Fry's brother, cousin [Lewis George Fry] the painter or any other near relation. Has finished the first act of his new play, on a mediaeval theme. His "Cecilia Gonzaga" is coming out in a month or two. Johnson has been bothering him over the £10 Trevelyan would not pay [for printing “Polyphemus and Other Poems”], claiming it is Fry's fee, which Trevelyan does not think has been paid. Does not want to quarrel with Johnson as he has the remainder of the edition but thinks he is trying to swindle them. Asks whether the Frys have changed houses; also whether he has done anything on their Claude, whether the Bellinis [works by Jacopo Bellini discovered by Fry in Venice which he hoped would be bought by the National Gallery] will come, and about 'the Cosimo and your petition to the Balfours'. News from Ravello about ‘the Kershaw’, Madam Palumbo, Tufti, Francesca and Mrs Reid. Fry’s portrait of ‘Old Pal. [Pasquale Palumbo]’ is much treasured by Madam Palumbo. They are reading [Richardson's] "Clarissa". Going to Palermo in about a month, and hope to see Lina. Berenson is in good humour with Fry; Trevelyan has been correcting some of his proofs.
Hotel & Pension Palumbo, Ravello, Golfo di Salerno. - Apologises for not writing more often. Is very sorry that her aunt has been so unwell; hopes the anxious time has now passed; can quite understand how her uncle might 'develop infinite degrees of fussiness' under the strain and thus be 'the direct opposite of [Alphonse] Grandmont' as he is in many other ways. Hopes Tuttie [Maria Hubrecht] also recovers quickly. His aunt Annie [Anna Maria Philips] is a 'dear creature', but always complains he does not write to or visit her enough; he also likes her 'invalid friend [Sophie Wicksteed]... to whom she has devoted herself'. His letter [about the landslide which damaged the Hotel Cappuccini at Amalfi] appeared in the "[Manchester] Guardian" on 2 January; it has pleased the locals as it says the coast is quite safe; thinks he will 'take to journalism', which is much easier than writing verse plays'. However, he has got on well this afternoon; is 'making no end of the wife, who is no end of a heroine'; teases Bessie by saying she will not get the chance to be such a faithful wife, as he will keep a closer eye on her. Copies out 'an old fellow who wrote about you in the 17th century' [Richard Crashaw, "Wishes to his (Supposed) Mistress"].
Continues the letter next morning; has breakfasted and 'pumped [his] ideas on Latin poetry into bucket Straughn Davidson [James Leigh Strachan-Davidson?] for half an hour'. Finishes copying out the Crashaw poem; thinks it influenced Browning. Glad Bessie has heard some music. Is 'very fond of Rameau', and has 'often heard Dolmetsch play him'. They must find out where Gluck is being played and go there; he 'can't wait much longer without hearing the Iphigenia and the other great ones'; though she might think him a Wagnerian. Hopes she will hear Lamond again. Finishes the letter in early afternoon. It is cold and stormy, and he will go to 'a nook under the cliff' to work. Discusses the rumours that there are letters incriminating [Joseph] Chamberlain [in the Jameson Raid?]; the 'Parnell letters and the Henry forgeries [in the Dreyfus case]' are warnings to be careful about such things, though if genuine they should be published; if this leads to a 'basis for peace so much the better'. Hopes Bessie's housekeeping is not tiring her; he will not be 'exacting' when they are married, 'especially with Mrs Enticknap to do everything' for her
Rocca Bella, Taormina. - has heard the news of the Frys' move to Hampstead from Mrs Enticknap; it is very sad, but hopes they will soon forget Dorking. Will be back in England by Easter to be at [G.E.] Moore's Easter party, which he thinks is to be in the New Forest. Asks Fry if he could come, and persuade Goldie [Dickinson] to come also; has written to [Bertrand] Russell to suggest his coming. Will go to the Berensons next week. Saw a great deal of the Waterfields at Palermo and has got to like [Aubrey] Waterfield very much; wishes Fry could appreciate him more, as Berenson now seems to. Must see Fry as soon as possible as he must settle with Johnson [publisher of Trevelyan's "Polyphemus and Other Poems"].
Wallington, Cambo, Morpeth. - Sorry that the journey to Rounton was 'so agitating'. Mary has written to say the wedding went well; Elizabeth's account is amusing. Expects she misses Julian, but they are glad to have him for a little longer at Wallington; he has been playing with his toys then was happy for Hearne [the butler] to carry him upstairs. Hopes Elizabeth and Robert have a good Christmas Day; asks to be remembered to the Enticknaps; hopes Gussie got home safely. Will be nice if Elizabeth comes to fetch Julian on Thursday. Sir George says there is a good review of Mrs [Janet] Ross in the "Nation"; she hopes Robert will lend her the book ["Lives of the early Medici as told in their correspondence"]
Wallington, Cambo, Northumberland. - Elizabeth's letter arrived by the evening post yesterday, as always. They are having a heatwave; sorry it was not better weather for Elizabeth's visit. Pleased to hear about the good beginning on [Elizabeth and Robert's new] house; tells her to be careful of the long walk there; she and Sir George went to Greenleighton yesterday with Booa [Mary Prestwich] and Cooper, taking tea, and she felt quite worn out. Has had a nice letter from Paul Hubrecht, who seems to have much enjoyed Northumberland and writes 'wonderfully good English'; criticises the British lack of facility with other languages. Originally enclosing a letter from Audrey [Trevelyan?] and one from 'young [Henry Graham?] Dakyns'; asks whether he is married. Sorry Miss [Lily] Noble's invitation came too late, and hopes Elizabeth can go another time; thanks her for sending it. A lady who called yesterday said there were good stone seats and garden ornaments at the Italian Exhibition in London; it closes on 1 October and the visitor was planning to get some right at the end when they would be sold off cheaply. Thought Elizabeth might like to see them, and she could let Caroline know if anything might suit them. Glad the Enticknaps are well. Hopes Elizabeth will find someone to go with her this winter; would be happier if she had a companion 'during R[obert]'s wanderings'; supposes Meg Booth would not do; Caroline does not know her well but she is 'quieter than Imogen'.
Welcombe, Stratford on Avon. - Hopes that the snow in Italy has melted. Spent one night and '2 busy days' in London; Sir George went up for the day yesterday. Spent that evening with Janet, since George was at a 'review meeting' [for the "Independent Review"?], who is very well and 'enjoys the situation to the full'; approves of her preparations [for the forthcoming birth]. Thinks Charles and Mary are staying at Cambo till the end of the month. Mary has 'thoroughly got up the subject of Taxation of Land Values' and has given several short speeches on it; she has also written a leaflet which Caroline hopes to get printed for the W.L.F. [Women's Liberal Federation]. Good that she can help Charles politically. Wants Elizabeth's advice about pianos: there ought to be one at Welcombe, and she would 'like to change the monster in London!'. Has a room at Welcombe to write in now, so Elizabeth can now have the drawing room to herself to practice in. Expects Meg Booth will arrive [in Italy] soon. Asks if Elizabeth is thinking of going to Taormina this year; hopes the Grandmonts are well. "The Times" is 'so hard up for an argument for the sugar tax that they say it is unhealthy and that people should not eat so much'. A party of neighbours came for lunch recently, and more will come. Has had a 'nice letter' from Mrs Enticknap.
Welcombe, Stratford on Avon. - Likes to think of Elizabeth in Ravello. Has been very busy since coming to Welcombe on 3 January; has been arranging a room for her own use in the mornings, which is 'quite comfortable' though has 'no view' and, currently, a 'hideous paper'. The Arthur Sidgwicks and their daughter [Ethel] came on Monday, Sidney Lee joined them. On Wednesday the library opened; has sent Elizabeth a Stratford paper with a report. The ceremony was 'nicely arranged' and went well; likes the building, which is in keeping with the surroundings. [Andrew] Carnegie gave the building and fittings, which are 'in good taste', then maintenance of the building will come from rates, and there is a subscription fund for buying books. Hopes it will 'do good': there is 'room for "sweetness & light" in Stratford'. Miss Corelli did not appear but 'must be very angry'; is sure she will 'do something malicious'. Mary Booth says in a letter that Charles will probably bring Meg to Elizabeth; gave a 'cheerful' account of the family. Is going to London on Monday, and will spend the evening with Janet. Pleased to hear Mrs Enticknap has had a little girl [named May]; has sent her a coat and hood. Has never read [Stendhal's] "Le Rouge et le Noir", but knows "La Chartreuse [de Parme]". Has Madame [Juliette] Adam's memoirs, and has been 'delighting in Burne-Jones life [by his wife]'. Hope Robert's work is going well; asks whether they are continuing their translation; whether the road is mended yet, and whether the Capucini Hotel at Amalfi goes on 'as before'. They are taking a trip to Rome next winter. Sir George is well; he took a week's break from his book, 'travelling & doing his speech', and now happily at work on it again. C[harles] and M[ary] are at Cambo; they celebrated their wedding anniversary by catching the train to Woodburn and walking back by Sweethope Lake, and enjoyed this 'immense expedition' very much.
Farringford, Freshwater, I[sle of] W[ight]. - Does not know Trevelyan's current address, but so is sending this via Cole. Wants to ask Trevelyan about a bookcase he 'left as a fixture at Roundhurst Farm', which according to Cole Trevelyan discovered Mr Blaydes had taken away and insisted upon his returning it. Regrets the day Blaydes ever became the Tennysons' tenant: they have had 'no end of bother with him & lawyers' and he has taken the bookcase away again. Asks Trevelyan to let her know as soon as possible whether he 'sanctioned Mr Blaydes to take it'. They have been spending a month at Aldworth; was very 'refreshing to see neither little Roundhurst nor any of its neighbourhood altered'. Hears from the Enticknaps that Trevelyan is building himself a house and has found a wife - '"and she is a nice lady"'. Hallam [her husband] sends remembrances.
The Mill House. - Continues the explanation of his sonnet from the last letter [9/116]; after jokingly describing the poem as 'terse, weighty, thrilling, magnificent, Dante-Baudelaire-Rossetti lines', he confesses that he does not think much of it, and wishes they [the "Speaker"] had published the translations they have returned. Is getting on 'fairly well' with the new plan of his play. Has only seen the Frys once since Sunday; he is 'very busy'. Is going to see Sanger in London on Monday before he starts [for Greece]. [George?] Moore has invited to join him, MacCarthy and another on their 'wonted Easter exhibition', this year to the Lizard in Cornwall; has been the last two years and liked it, but will decide nearer the time. Suggests that she might use the library as her study while he keeps the little room; noise does travel from the kitchen, but a baize or felt door would improve matters, and the Enticknaps are 'very quiet people'. Gussie is at school all day; he has in the past been 'a little noisy' in the evening, but is improving. Sophie has asked what books he would like [as a wedding present], suggesting an edition of Thackeray, or Browning (which he has); Thackeray would be good but perhaps he prefers Meredith. Has a Goethe and Heine; has read some "Faust" and means to do more; gets on quite well with a translation and dictionary, but very slowly.
Government House, Adelaide. - Is sorry to lose Alfred Enticknap, who had a post with him for life. If Trevelyan takes Enticknap away, he will make himself 'more or less responsible for him and his wife'; thinks Trevelyan will be 'bound to provide for them, as they evidently will look on [him] as their protector & guide etc'. Is willing to let the house [Roundhurst] to any friend of Trevelyan's he might recommend, on the same terms and for at least a year as long as the tenant 'behaves himself - and is not a bore to the Walpoles'. His family are all well and send 'kind remembrances'.
Wallington, Cambo, Morpeth. - Will be very pleased if Elizabeth brings Julian for a visit. Is going to see Annie from 21- 24 July, though unluckily Charles can come for that weekend so she will miss him; Mary is staying on with the children to look after Sir George; when they leave Julian can have the nursery to himself; can arrange the time for Elizabeth's second visit later, when they hope to see Robert too. Thinks Elizabeth is lucky to get Nurse Withers: it is rare to get two good nurses in succession. [Charles and Mary's] children are well and have 'a very satisfactory governess'. Asks how much help Elizabeth's nurse will need; would need to get extra help to provide the waiting on which Mrs Catt had. The Davidsons only have one young man lodging with them besides Gussie at the moment, so Mrs Enticknap could stay there; Caroline would pay.
The Shiffolds. - Is writing before he goes to bed to let her know that all is well; the telegram from Welcombe came this morning and they were glad that their wire [46/118] had reached her. Bessie is 'really very well, and very little tired'; the baby [Paul] is also doing well, 'sleeps a great deal, and does not cry much when he is awake'. Robert 'cannot say he seems... beautiful exactly, but on the other hand he is not ugly, and at least he has plenty of hair'. The Enticknaps say he is like Robert, but he can't judge. The nurse is 'very satisfactory' and Bessie likes her.
Sent 'the little sweets [muisjes]' to his father and Booa in the last post; it seems to be an 'old Dutch custom' to give them to friends and relations, and they should be 'eaten sprinkled on bread and butter'. Has been busy sending 'post cards and telegrams etc', will probably have more time to write tomorrow.
Tovey's concerto was 'splendidly played by Richter's orchestra'; Richter seems very pleased with it and wants to do it again. Robert 'found it rather difficult, but liked some of it very much'. Bessie sends her love and Pauls'.
The Park, Prestwich, Manchester. - Very sorry to hear that Elizabeth and Julian are not coming north, but it is better for him to get well again. Passed on the message to Annie [Philips] who would like to put Elizabeth up. Suggests she comes at the end of August to spend a week before G[eorge] and J[anet] come and a week with them. Mrs Enticknap should write to Mrs Davidson and arrange with her when she is coming [to visit Gussie]. Is glad Sir George will be getting 'a difficult puzzle'; he finishes the easy ones far too quickly. There is 'an outbreak of garden parties at Wallington', but will still have one when the family are all with her. Annie is very well.
The Shiffolds. - Dr Clarke says that Bessie 'could not be doing better'; Paul is also very well, and 'sleeps a fair amount'; Clarke will come again tomorrow. The nurse 'manages splendidly'. The household is also getting on very well: Mrs Ent[icknap] 'takes a great deal of trouble' and Alice also 'helps well'. Gussie [Enticknap] was 'kept in the dark until yesterday evening', when his mother took him to see the baby; he 'seemed very much astonished'. He thinks he will 'soon have someone to play cricket with, but that is looking forward too far'.
Everyone thinks the baby looks a lot like Robert; supposes he must be, but to him he 'looks far more like Mr Finch'; asks his mother not to tell this to Finch. The baby is 'certainly very healthy and a fair size, 7 1/2 lbs and 20 inches'; his hair is 'about Bessie's colour, or a little darker, and his skin is rather brown'.
Lady V[aughan] Williams has just called to enquire and invite Robert to High Ashes for lunch; thinks he will go, as Bessie usually sleeps after lunch. Miss [Sophy?] Wedgwood and Margaret Vaughan Williams also came to see the baby this afternoon, and 'thought him very charming'. Does not think he missed writing to anyone: sent telegrams to Aunt Anna, Aunt Meg, Uncle Harry, Aunt Nora, Janet, Molly and a few others. Sends love - also from Bessie and Paul - to his father; will write to him next. Must finish now as the post is due.
Glad to receive Robert's book ["The Bride of Dionysus"]: has been a 'little ill' in bed and so had chance to read it all and get an 'oversight'; thinks it might be nice for Robert to be able to do so and 'forget the labour'. The poems make a 'grand effect'. Has seen several of the songs, as [Julius] Röntgen has been busy composing them and setting them to music; when he read them aloud in a 'compassionate tone' they made a 'great impression' on her. Röntgen has 'very musically translated' one of Robert's "Dirges"; thinks his 'own heart sang [emphasised] it with you, in remembrance of his own escaped bird' [perhaps his first wife and daughter]. She tried yesterday to read the poems while 'mending the stockings of the whole household', but found these tasks 'rather hard to unite'. Has been thinking a great deal about Robert, Bessy, the child [Julian] and the Shiffolds; keeps composing letters in her head but not writing them, and she never seems to finish the 'little presents for Bessie' . They are 'without patients' in the house for the first time, but she has much to 'learn... and do'; was reading a book by Novalis yesterday in which he compared Goethe to [Josiah] Wedgwood, which made her think of Robert's 'friends and neighbours in your solitude' [perhaps the Vaughan Williamses, relations of the Wedgwoods?]. Asks to him to greet them from her and 'Doorty, "Little Dorrit"', who wants to greet them though she 'doesn't even know whom I mean'. Hopes Bessie will translate this letter; does not think it is 'pure English'. Will have to visit the Trevelyans again. Is making a collar for Julian, which perhaps she will send for Bessie's birthday. Their 'house & hands are still full' of the Trevelyans' presents, which serve as constant reminders. It will be beautiful at the Shiffolds and in the woods now, as the spring is 'more beautiful than ever before'. There is no trace of the 'difficulties of the becoming' of Robert's book in it now; switches into Dutch. Discusses the type, says goodbye to her 'beste broeder & sister; mentions the Enticknaps
Wallington, Cambo, Morpeth. - If it suits Elizabeth to come later, will be glad to see her then. Mary is 'laid up' in bed on Dr [Ethel?] Williams' advice, though Caroline does not think 'anything will go wrong'. Has been sitting with her, and yesterday looked after 'a picnic party of Women Liberals' for her. Discusses the question of nurses; thinks that Mrs Catt should take a longer holiday. Hopes Elizabeth's 'suspicions' [of pregnancy] are true; she must not worry, and take care. She would like Mrs Catt to come back herself, but thinks Booa [Mary Prestwich] is doubtful. Mrs Davidson says that Mrs Enticknap is coming soon [to visit Gussie]. A postscript on a separate sheet says she is sending Elizabeth a blouse from Interlaken; has been to visit Mary and hopes she will be well in a few days; does hope Elizabeth is right [about pregnancy] as it would be 'good for Julian and everyone'; recommends again that Elizabeth should put off the decision about nurses to see whether Nurse Catt really is better.
8, Grosvenor Crescent, S.W. - Will send this letter to Florence as expects Elizabeth and Robert will leave Ravello today; sorry that they have not had good weather. Has been very busy this week visiting Cheyne Gardens: [George and Janet's new baby Mary] is very sweet and Janet is doing well; George was worried until it was over but now is cheerful. He and Sir George, and perhaps Charlie, are going to Cambridge next Friday to vote against compulsory Greek; they do not expect to succeed but there is 'a great rally on both sides'; it is said it would be carried if it depended on the residents. The Watts and Whistler exhibitions [at the Royal Academy and the New Gallery, Regent Street] are both 'most interesting collections', and there is a 'wonderful show of Oriental China in Bond Street'. Asks if Elizabeth and Robert will prefer to go straight home or stay the night in London; is anxious to see them again. It will be interesting for them to see the [new] house and the Enticknaps' baby. Sorry that Charles Booth is still so unwell; has not quite understood whether Mary and Imogen joined them. Glad Elizabeth is not going to Holland; thinks it would be too cold and damp. There is much illness about here; Uncle Harry has bronchitis, and Nora [Trevelyan?] a bad cold. They have decided to keep the old Broadwood piano in London, and want Elizabeth to choose a little one for Welcombe before Easter. Has heard no music, but they have been to a Bernard Shaw play ["John Bull's Other Island"]. Booa [Mary Prestwich] cheerful and looking forward to seeing Elizabeth; Janet much pleased with her letters. '"Mother" [possibly Florence Bell?] is very active and... good on such an occasion'.
Wallington, Cambo, Morpeth. - Glad that Mrs Enticknap got back safely; wanted her to stay till today but she did not want to travel without an escort; glad she was 'satisfied with Gussie'. Will send some fruit tomorrow and hopes it arrives in good condition; it worked for Janet, but the post is quicker there. Mary is recovering [after her miscarriage], but must stay in bed until the end of the week; she is 'very cheerful, & wants company', so it is lucky a cousin has come to stay, as Caroline found it very tiring visiting her every day. George came for three days; he is 'fairly cheerful now, but looks sadly older, & has times of silence and depression [following the death of his son Theo]'; was meeting Janet at Ellargreen [?]. Delighted to hear that Elizabeth's 'news [that she is pregnant]' is true; will be 'so good for Julian'. Knows she is always careful; Mary was 'very unwise' and it is kindest not to say too much about it. Sorry to hear that Mrs Catt still doubts she is strong enough to come as a nurse. Excited and uneasy about politics; it is a 'very serious crisis'. Hopes Mr [Donald] Tovey will soon be settled and that they have a good time with him. Going to a garden party at Hallington today. Loves the little photograph of Julian.
Wallington, Cambo, Morpeth. - Booa does not think that Emily [Ede, Elizabeth's maid?] is needed, and the nurse and Julian are 'comfortably settled in the nursery'. Glad the household are well; sure Mrs E[nticknap] would sympathise with Elizabeth's news. Julian is very sweet; describes his behaviour. Sorry Elizabeth has to go to Dr Cartier[?].
Wallington, Cambo, Northumberland. - Discusses arrangements for her visit on Wednesday 1 November; Tuesday would be difficult as she has a Com[mittee] all day. If it would be inconvenient due to the departure of Elizabeth's 'troublesome little maid', she could come on the 9th or 10th if she knew at once. Booa [Mary Prestwich] is not coming up before they go abroad, but will be in London over Christmas so Elizabeth could invite her to visit then. Caroline will not bring Pantlin [her maid] so Elizabeth must excuse her appearance. Very sorry about Florence [the maid]; she thinks the mother 'very foolish'. Suggests finding a girl from further away; she herself never takes them from the village as 'they do nothing but talk & gossip'. Asks when Elizabeth and Robert think of going abroad; asks if they will come south, and see Caroline and Sir George in Rome on the way; they start on 12 December. Glad Elizabeth likes the name Pauline; the baby is nice and placid, not as lively as Mary was; Mary does not like her at the moment 'as she is not allowed to seize her by the head, & put her nose into her mouth'; they leave on Wednesday. Thanks Elizabeth for the news about Aunt Margaret [Holland?]. Wonders whether next year Elizabeth should get a 'regular house parlourmaid, & let Mrs Enticknap do the cooking'. Sends love to Robert; glad he is getting some shooting.
Florence. - Is writing before they leave for Rome early tomorrow morning; they have very much enjoyed themselves as there are 'such endless lovely things to see', though the weather has been bad. Glad to hear Elizabeth and Robert have made pleasant arrangements for their winter stay abroad; Elizabeth will be glad not to go as far as Ravello, and 'it cannot be colder!'; hopes she will take warmer clothes with her as there may be a harsh winter. Thinks Florence milder than usual for November. Glad Elizabeth likes the bag; she herself finds one 'a great comfort'. Hopes Elizabeth's 'girl' [a new maid] is doing well, and that Mrs Enticknap likes the idea of training her when Elizabeth and Robert are away. She and Sir George are 'much interested in the political crisis', but she does not think anything will happen for a while. George 'writes in high spirits'; she is glad Elizabeth will see him and Janet; believes Charlie is on a speaking tour. Hopes Elizabeth will see Booa [Mary Prestwich] when she comes up. They can stay at 8 Gro[svenor ] Cr[escent] before they start; there will be 'someone in the kitchen & a man there'. They are excited at going to Rome; they love the art at Florence, but there are 'more and different interests in Rome'. They have not met anyone they know except [Henry] White, the American ambassador, and his wife, who have returned to Rome; will dine with them on Thanksgiving Day next Thursday 'and eat Turkey & Cranberry sauce!'. Has seen in the newspapers that [Joseph] Joachim is 'playing as well as ever'; hopes Elizabeth thinks so. Liked the music when they went to High Mass on Sunday: strings, choir, and occasional organ, 'rather sentimental' but better than in Rome, where she always thinks 'the voices & the organ carry on a sort of contest' as to which can be loudest.
The Mill House, Westcott, Dorking. - Is sure things will improve and she must not worry; as his mother says, 'it is really rather... a storm in a teacup'; it is nothing to compare to the happiness that will soon be theirs. Though he often fails 'through weakness and idleness', his life 'has been passionately devoted... to the best and most beautiful things which [his] imagination can attain to' and hers will be as well; lists all that will be good in their lives. Will write again to the consul [Henry Turing] if he does not hear from him today, since they need to know whether he can come on the 7th [June]; has also not heard from Sir Henry Howard, through whom he sent the letter; will send the second letter direct to Turing. There has been some delay at the lawyers about the settlements; has written to tell them to speed up. Bessie should tell him if he need do anything else regarding the marriage conditions her uncle sent. Thinks he may come over on 12 or 13 June. Meta Smith, his aunt Margaret's daughter, has sent a silver inkstand, and Mrs Holman Hunt a piece of Japanese silk. Had a good time at Cambridge: saw Mrs McTaggart, a 'nice quiet sort of person'; Tom Moore read his play and thinks it should come out well though he has pointed out 'some serious faults and suggested alterations'; Moore is going to give him a lot of his woodcuts, and has begun an Epithalamium for them, though since he has not got on with it says they should defer the wedding for a month. Asks what he should do about the Apostles' dinner; it will be 'quite exceptional this year', Harcourt is president and everyone will come; would very much like to go but will not break their honeymoon if she does not wish it. Very keen to go to the lakes eventually, but they could spend a few days before the dinner at Blackdown among his 'old haunts'; Mrs Enticknap's aunt lives in a farmhouse a mile from Roundhurst, which would be perfect. Hopes [Alice and Herbert] Jones' visit has been a success. [Desmond] MacCarthy is coming tomorrow for a few days and [Oswald?] Sickert on Sunday for the day. Will see [the Frys] this evening and discuss colours for the walls. Thinks [Charles] Sanger is very happy; is not entirely sure [about the marriage], since 'Dora has behaved so strangely', but everything seems to be coming right. Has ben reading Emerson on poetry and imagination and thinks it 'amazingly fine and right'. Most people think "Pères et enfants [Fathers and Sons]" is Turgenev's best book; he himself does not like the ending but finds the book charming; has heard the French translation, the only one he has read, is better than the German or English one - Sickert says so and he is half-German. Has ordered the trousers, and found the catalogue so will order the beds and so on next week. Glad Bessie got on with her socialist sister [Theodora]. has just had a note from Sir Henry Howard saying 7 June will suit Turing; she should let her uncle know. Does not think there will be further delay with the legal papers.
"In the train". - They have left Rome, and hope to reach Bologna this evening; will remain there until Saturday. Sir George is well, though not completely recovered; he is anxious to get back to work. They have made a number of excursions and got to like the countryside around Rome. [Onorato] Carlandi has done many drawings of the Tiber from source to sea, which they found very interesting. Glad that Robert can work, and that Elizabeth has 'such a pleasant friend'; read a 'pretty story' by Mrs [Lina] Waterfield in the "Westminster [Review]". In Southern Italy 'the people are absolutely Pagan', a curious combination with the 'files of young priests & the infinite number of churches'. Rome is 'becoming much more of a capital', and much cleaner and more prosperous, but Tuscany is still much more civilised outside the cities. Charlie has been very 'good & generous about being left out', and they hope it will only be temporary, but it is still hard; lucky he is so happily married and Mary is so cheerful. They will be taking their new house before long. Dined with the Whites on Christmas day; they are 'the most hospitable of people, & great fun'. The Whites are 'much more amusing' than the British ambassador [Sir Edwin Egerton], who is 'very kind but dull'; his wife [Olga] is Russian, 'pleasant & talkative, but rather hard to understand'.
Continues the letter at Bologna; the weather is wet, but there is much to see; they will stay here tomorrow then travel to Lugano on Saturday; Sir George has ingeniously arranged different stopping points for the return journey. Hopes all is well at the Shiffolds; it must be a comfort to Elizabeth to have Mrs E[nticknap] is there. Expects to find 'election excitement in full swing' when they return. Notes in a postscript that Sir George's uncle William Trevelyan, 'Cousin Willie's' father, has died at the age of 93; he was a 'nice old thing' and married Sir George and Caroline, 'ages ago!'.
The Shiffolds, Holmbury St. Mary, Dorking. - Thanks her for her letter and the cutting about Taormina: 'the place is certainly being rapidly spoilt, and the funiculare will complete the process'. There has been little recent 'development of the "affaire" [of Florence Cacciola Trevelyan's will'. They were very sorry to hear of the death of Lady Trevelyan, Audrey's mother; saw in the papers today that it was due to a 'fall in her room'.
Happily, Enticknap has recovered quickly: his wife has gone up to London today to bring him back, though of course he will not be able to work again yet. Bessie and Paul are well: Paul 'takes more solid food now'. They are staying with the Russells in Oxford next Saturday to Monday; next week the Whiteheads are staying with them for a few days (Whitehead is 'the mathematician at Cambridge with whom Russell collaborates').
Glad she is having 'so pleasant a time' in Rome, and that his father is enjoying himself; will write to him soon. Weather recently very stormy. Sorry they have 'made the viaduct into the Borghese': fears it 'will go a long way to spoil it... but the fashionable world were determined to be no longer confined to the Pincian for their evening drive', he supposes.
Welcombe, Stratford on Avon. - Hopes Madame Grammont [Bramine Grandmont Hubrecht] will arrive safely today. Mary writes that she thinks Elizabeth is getting on well; hopes she will be 'quite convalescent' by the time Caroline sees her. Approves of the changes to the household planned for the Shiffolds: the E[nticknaps] have 'been most useful & devoted' but the strain on all sides is now too great; wishes they had 'sent the young man [Gussie] to be a sailor' and fears they will not be able to 'control him'. Sir George enjoys the publication of his book, and 'the letters & reviews are a continual amusement'. Will send a toy for Julian's birthday.
The Mill House, Westcott, Dorking. - Hopes his flowers reach her; his first since last summer, when he sent 'some Asphodel and some Mallow' ["Mallow and Asphodel", his first book of poetry]; they are mainly wild flowers. Explains the symbolism of all the flowers he has chosen, including ivy 'as the sacred plant of Bacchus' whom he worships 'in no vulgar sense, but as he was worshipped in the true esoteric mysteries'. Asks whether he should bring his poetry over to Holland or leave it in London. His father has written [to the lawyers] to say the papers must be ready to sign on Wednesday afternoon. Is going to London tomorrow; his parents will not return from Welcombe until Tuesday. The Enticknaps have given him a pair of brass candlesticks, which they could have in the dining room 'for ordinary use' or for reading in his room. [Charles] Sanger and [Robin] Mayor may cycle over for lunch or tea. Has had a 'delightful walk' and 'devised a new way of doing a mediaeval prose story' he has wanted to write for a long time. Has not done much German recently; will bring Wagner's librettos, which he thinks are 'damned fine poems'.
8 Grosvenor Crescent, S.W. - Had a good journey, and it was nice to travel with Robert, who sat with them before his dinner. Hopes Elizabeth was no worse for Caroline's visit; felt she was very tired when she left; she must not expect to get strong at once after such a long illness. Sir George likes the idea of Elizabeth coming to Welcombe to get some real rest, and then go to the sea a few weeks later. Has been to Nicoll's this morning and 'seen the shops boarded up after the onslaught of the Suffragettes'; thinks their actions 'really terrible' and '[p]laying into the hands of the enemy'; the coal dispute is also 'very disappointing & anxious'. Sir George is 'excessively gloomy' but has not mentioned leaving London again. Was glad the motor came to the door as it gave Julian such pleasure. Good to see Mrs Grammont [Bramine Grandmont Hubrecht]; hopes she will soon be better. Did not see 'any use in talking to the Ent[ickna]ps yesterday' but if Elizabeth agrees would like to send a message saying she is sorry 'the arrangement about Gussie had to terminate' and that she hopes he will do better elsewhere; does not wish to be unfriendly to them. Annie [Philips] is coming to lunch and taking her to a concert at the Queen's Hall.
Wallington, Cambo, Morpeth. - Thanks Mrs Walter Rea for thinking of the puzzle, and Elizabeth for sending it; it is the most difficult he has ever done and he has 'had to take a holiday even to set it going'; will let her know how he gets on. This morning in the portico, saw a little girl 'in a sort of ecstasy of happiness' singing and talking to a kitten; Caroline says it must have been May Enticknap; glad they [the Enticknaps] are here and 'so agreeably lodged'. They are looking forward to Elizabeth and Robert's visit, and eager to see Julian. Is finding it 'a very attractive way of doing one's politics' to read the letters in the "Times" at Wallington; supposes everything will be over by Friday; the 'unexpected has played a great part, as it always does in a revolution'.
Welcombe, Stratford on Avon. - Lord Wolseley and his daughter [Frances], 'one of the C. Booth girls [Imogen]', Henry James and 'the L Courteneys [sic: Leonard Courtney and his wife?] have been staying at Welcombe; the weather is glorious. Expects the next month will be trying for Bessie; hard to leave 'such a kind home'; everyone will try to make it up to her. The Trevelyans are 'not very demonstrative' but already feel that Bessie is one of them. Charles and George have spent some time at Welcombe, but left yesterday; Sir George goes to London on Tuesday; she herself is staying till the 26th as her sister Mrs Price and her boys are coming to see some of the Shakespearean plays. Charles and George both hope to come to the wedding. Robert will be in London before long to settle some 'law business'. Thinks Bessie will be able to get Robert 'gradually into more regular habits', and he will see that 'batchelor [sic] habits cannot be continued'. Wise to choose the long sofa; will tell Mrs Enticknap when the things are to be expected. Has had a 'nursing meeting' and bazaar opening this week. Sir George is writing to Bessie's uncle. Asks whether it will be hot in the Hague in June.