Item 30 - Letter from Marie Busch to R. C. Trevelyan

2 items

147 Willifield Way, Golders Green, N.W.11. - Thanks Trevelyan very much for the 'noble edition' [his "Collected Works"?] which is like 'drinking very fragrant tea out of Sèvres cups, a pleasure in itself'. Sends Nellie Swanwick's letter to Henry Swadling; no doubt Nellie also 'experienced the faithfulness & practical help of [Trevelyan's] friendship' and Marie is glad he can feel her appreciation after her death. Says Nellie 'always had a greater opinion of virtue in women than in men - excepting her own (good but dull) Fred'. Since it was Nellie's last letter to him, Henry would like to have it back; he is in Hammersmith Hospital. Wishes Trevelyan 'as cheerful a Xmas as one can hope for at present'.

'Extract from last letter of Mrs Swanwick to Swadling', in R. C. Trevelyan's hand. No date. Helena Swanwick has heard nothing from Walter since his wife [Thérèse Lessore] wrote to say they were settled in Bath: Walter never writes. Leonard does nothing, as usual, and 'isn't fit to do anything'. Bessie [Sickert]'s orchestra has dissolved, and is working without salary in a government office; thinks she will stay if her health stands it; she still lives in her flat in Gower Street. Robert Trevelyan's 'dearest friend', Lord Allen of Hurtwood, died in the summer and he is looking after the widow and daughter. He is 'very heartbroken... one of the few men really capable of devoted affection'. Agnes is well. She herself can 'hardly walk at all' but the gardening is finished.