HOWITT

saying she was so very sorry to see by your card that you had left Esher - It was quite a painful surprise. We were prevented from going to your Studio on the evening we had intended to do so by the visit of an unlooked for friend, & on Sunday evening I did not go to church because my husband wished me to make a call with him on an acquaintance in Esher. I wish we had only known that you were leaving so soon... However our kind, good wishes go with you, & when you come next to Esher you must be sure to let us know. I return you Mr Rich's letter which is a very nice, manly letter & I am heartily glad of it. I shall now, if any opportunity occurs of helping him not fail to do so. I am really heartily thankful when people turn out well, when they do not reject one's little efforts to serve them. - or make them an ill returns..., 3 sides 8vo., The Orchard, Esher, 23rd June no year circa