Pièce 18 - Letter from E. M. Forster to Elizabeth Trevelyan

2 sheets.

Brunswick Square, as from West Hackhurst, Abinger Hammer, Dorking. - Headed 'PERSONAL'. Was 'so pleased' to see Bessie yesterday, but is 'much troubled' that she has 'so much vexation'. Of course knew that she 'disliked the lady', but had not realised how much; will be 'relieved' when his own present collaboration with her is over. Thinks that 'she can only influence opinions not sway the central part', and though it is 'tiresome' to 'see the opinion of someone whom one loves influenced by someone whom one is far from loving, it is only a superficial vexation', and, he trusts, temporary. Has been 'much distressed', and glad her 'preliminary warning' led him to be on his guard 'against that restless crawling desire for intimacy'. Does not know whether 'the lady' is 'bad, and I don't think you can know', but is 'gladder than ever not to be on the telephone!'.
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Is 'not dissatisfied' with his contribution to the Pageant [England's Green and Pleasant Land, performed at Milton Court, Dorking, 9–16 July 1938], but will be glad when it is over: it has 'meant endless work', and the 'Farrer boycott' has hurt him 'unreasonably'. This is, of course, in line with the 'indifference and hostility' they have shown to him and his mother ever since they came to West Hackhurst thirteen years ago; makes him realise 'how promptly they will turn me out when she [his mother] dies', which is depressing. Hates 'bitter thoughts - they are so tiring'.

Must now 'put on a collar and go to lunch with little Lord Carlow, whoever that may be', then entertain an American writer she will never have heard of, Waldo Frank, to tea. After that will return for a rehearsal at Dorking. Is sure it would be all right if she wanted to come with him to the dress rehearsal; she 'wouldn't mind the absence of the pigs and goats, which we fear will distress the critics'.

The identity of 'the lady' whom Bessie dislikes and with whom Forster is currently collaborated is unclear, but it may be Sylvia Sprigge, secretary and publicity manager for England's Pleasant Land.