Autograph letter signed with initials : London, to Richard Hengist Horne, 1843 June 16.

Concerning the copies she and Miss Mitford have asked for of his book; saying how sorry she is to hear that he is still ill and apologizing for "...having written a very silly note to you a few days since (see MA 2147.17) - That it was simply silly . . meaning that it was'nt seriously silly, I beg you to believe. I am apt to write the thought or the jest, (as it may be) which is uppermost - & sometimes too when it is not uppermost, I struggle against a sadness which is strong, by putting a levity in the place of it...My grave & real thoughts are these - that I think you exceedingly kind to both of us . . kinder than you ought to be; & that I was pleased instead of the contrary, by your giving up the point to her; for several reasons, some more obvious than others - I love her & admire her, & w'd give her the first place everywhere, . . if there c'd be any question as to such precedence - And then, she has more in her power . . she can do more for the poem . . she counts an amount of 'learned & accomplished friends' above any person I ever knew or heard of - & for a good private advertiser, never was anyone superior to her own self;" expressing her concern for his health and asking him to let her know if he is better; adding "As you were prudent enough not to send me an address, you are as safe from me as Orion under Mr. Miller's bed, & I can only send this note to rejoin two others at New Broad Street."