Letter from Barbara Hofland, Twickenham, to an unidentified translator, 1821 March 22 : autograph manuscript signed.

Thanking the french translator of her novel "Ellen, the Teacher" which was published as "Hélène by F. Scherff, Paris, 1817; saying "Although I have not the honour of knowing I cannot revisit the pleasure of thanking you (now an opportunity occurs) for the admirable translation you gave given of my "Ellen the Teacher" - The simplicity, faithfulness, and elegance, with which you have rendered my little story, has given it a value in my eyes which it never had before and I am perfectly sensible that my poor little girl looks much more interesting in her french cloathing, than her own original rustic dress. The aim we have both had was however of a far higher nature than that of mere captivation, and most sincerely grateful do I feel, both to you and Madame de Montalien for having condescended to add your talents and labour to mine, for the furtherance of my humble endeavours to benefit the young and soothe their afflictions. I am more particularly obliged by the excellent Preface which you have given and the generous and in fact true reasons which you are pleased to assign for the manner in which my stories are conducted. It is a most delightful refreshment to the heart in its moments of languor and regret to feel assured that there exists even among strangers some kind and congenial spirits who enter into our feelings & adopt our ideas, partake our heavenly hopes and our earthly occupations, and with whom we may consistently hope to enjoy intimacy in a higher state of existence. Such engagement you have afforded to me dear lady for which I most sincerely thank you and most grateful shall I be if you do me the honour to translate any other of my little works as if you do me the favour of informing me to whom I am indebted for such valuable proofs of approbation."