Pièce 2 - Letter from Robert Pemberton Milnes to Emma Blackburne

1 folded sheet.

Fryston. Has always avoided town at busy periods, but meant to be there; however, influenza has stopped him and he cannot say when he will be able to come. Does not mind being alone as much as some would; 'With all Richard's fancy for books, I have a notion I read as much as he does'. Hears often from Annabel; she is an 'excellent correspondent' and 'must have written all copies in large text for the girl's school at Madeley - so distinct is her chirography'. She tells him of some of her guest but not all; she says 'they ask'd so many one night some could not get in the house. He himself 'set[s] small value on London friendships, generally' - about 'the prince of a bottle of ginger beer'.

Asks to be remembered kindly to Lord Crewe; is glad to see his sister [Annabel] so often, and trusts that he will esteem Richard the more the longer he knows him. Wishes he would have come with Richard for a few days for the election; asks Mrs Blackburne to tell him so, thinks it 'would amuse him immensely. The row & outspoken way they knock about the candidates, he would be excessively entertained'.