| Description | This and the last letter only a month apart because of the desire to thank Catherine profusely for the slippers sent by Catherine which she carpet-worked herself. Mama has returned by New Zealand to the news that 'our dear Archdeacon' had died whilst she was away. Mama will miss him as a counsellor. Mama returned with a strain and could not walk, she was later advised to use it as much as possible, after which it began to heal. Mama has reported on the missions in New Zealand and the baptising of many 'natives' and hundreds receiving the Sacrement. Mama prefers New Zealand scenery to Tasmanian, it is more humid and greener, not from grass but from ferns. Remarks of a new baby in the household and of preferences of children's ages for Mama and Papa. The governess who was to join the household married as soon as she arrived. Aunt Simpkinson is likely to be 'vexed' when she hears the situation, so it's possible that the governess was sent on her approval. Noted in a previous letter 'Erebus and Terror were here, having returned successful from the Antarctic regions. They left about ten days ago for Sydney and N. Zealand and from thence they go down to the pole again'. The captain Ross has a scientific mind and his heart set on 'magnetism'. Crozier not scientific but 'strongly attached to his profession'. Crozier ill before he left and word is awaited from Sydney about his health. The captains 'find it impossible to winter in the ice' so from Sydney propose to go to New Zealand and then to the Falkland Isles, and return in summer to the south. Both were given a flowerstand of Wattle before leaving. Mama sends love and wishes. Eleanor hopes that Catherine will soon no longer be 'Franklin' and notes that Mr Gell knows Mr Drummond. A long prostscript asks Catherine to thank Emily and Anne for the 'pretty note paper' and talks of dancing lessons. |
| Recipient Location | Henry Selwood's [Selwood] Esq., Horncastle, Lincolnshire |