| Description | 16th Oct: Catherine has not felt equal to writing, as it takes some effort after attacks [of illness]; she has been thinking much about Eleanor of late; the affair of the Wardenship must have been very trying; Mr Bicknell's resignation must have been a sad thing for the Bishop, just on the eve of his departure from England, which will be delayed [probably referring to Francis Russell Nixon, Bishop of Tasmania, who wsa in England 1846-1848]. She sympathises with Eleanor's trying situation; she thinks Eleanor will be expecting John Gell back next summer, it now being 4 years since their engagement. The same post brought letters with news of Zasie's illness. Eleanor's aunt has been kind about Catherine's having a chair to go about in. Dr Gull spoke much in his last note to Maria about Catherine's ultimate recovery. 28th: yesterday morning to her surprise Catherine and Willingham appeared, the latter not having been seen since he was 5 years old. 1 Nov: Eleanor's veil is about to be begun; she will want it now winter is setting in; if Eleanor wants patterns for poplins, she only has to order with directions on colour, and they can get them, although they are not cheap; they thought Eleanor had given up the idea of having the dress. She is glad the Bishop does not leave until December, as they hope to get him for a meeting; the delay in his departure may mean he will hear any news of Eleanor's uncle.
PS [on third page]. Sophy has heard from M.A. Kendall: she does not go down to Alverstoke until Friday next, and she will not be there long, no more than a fortnight. they are expecting Uncle Sellwood and Louisa to pass a few hours with them in the afternoon: she and Mama have not seen them since they left Lincolnshire: Sophy and Emma have been at Hale at different times. They are only 3 minutes from the station [at Winchester], so can easily run up to meet their friend.
Envelope stamped with Winchester mark for 1 Nov 1847: inside the envelop is written "Mrs Cracroft, 5 Portland Place, Winchester". |
| Sender Location | 5 Portland Place, Winchester |
| Recipient | Eleanor Isabella Franklin |