Pièce 80 - Letter from R. C. Trevelyan to Elizabeth des Amorie van der Hoeven

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The Mill House, Westcott, Dorking - Pretends to be cross that his promise to write before her next letter has been foiled by her postcard; he ought to write more often but confesses that he is 'too much absorbed in his own self. Some of the verses he encloses are perhaps 'too heavy'; is not really satisfied with the lines from his 'Indian poem' and the poem seems too vague. Is not inclined to go on with it at the moment, having begun his play, which 'though a tragedy, is a more cheerful subject'; supposes this is because it is less unreal. Is also putting in an old 'poem about nothing at all', and a translation from Ronsard. Has had some 'wonderful afternoons and evenings lately' walking near his house and not returning till 'the moon has been up for an hour or two'; the countryside is even more beautiful that he expected. Felt 'inventive and confident' for the first time in months tonight, and has composed the first speech in his new play. The house is now 'nearly right'. Is going to London on Monday, and will not miss Rontgen's recital. Tells her to be as critical as she likes about his poetry.

Bob then writes out his poem "Fairy Song", and a translation of a Ronsard "Sonnet to Cassandra" with the French original. Both of his poems include alternative lines, and the Ronsard sonnet has pencil annotations which seem to be queries by Bessie van der Hoeven.

• français

The 'Indian poem' mentioned in the letter is not present, so a sheet may be missing from the letter.