3274. Robert Southey to Thomas Southey, 22 March 1819 ⁠* 

My dear Tom

I will enquire about the plough. –  [1]  About the removal of the hay from the Byer, which I suppose to be some such unintelligible thing as a Binnacle; you must tell me if a cart will be required for the operation, & then I will see how it can be done. Lastly concerning a maid on the eventful Wednesday the 31: – We have no nurse, & therefore a great increase of employment: but I will send Littledale [2]  over, who is a very honest poor fellow, – & will be able to lend a hand.

A box which I suppose to be grocery has arrived, – & a cargo of ironmongery, but not the Tables.

We have had rather an anxious time on several accounts. Edith has still a considerable degree of weakness in her limbs, tho I trust there is no longer any danger of any thing serious.

You will do me main service if by means of your friend M^r Romney [3]  a treaty of alliance can commerce can be concluded between me & the Emperor of the Toasted Cheeses, so that I can have a yearly supply. – Please also to pay for my candles, & I will settle that account on your arrival, & let the maker know, that when we order more, he must arrange in what manner the payment is to be made.

The boy will be christened Charles Cuthbert, Charles is a sleeping name, prefixed by desire of his two Godfathers, Wynn & Bedford. Till he receivesx a Christian name, he goes by the Philistine one of Og, [4]  given him at the hour of his birth, by reason of his size.

We can bed as many of the young ones as you chuse to leave in passing.

George Tarleton, [5]  of whom your hay is bought has agreed to leave £2. 10. 9. out of the amount to discharge his bill to Edmondson, – & the D^rs receipt will be good in your payment.

And this I believe is all I have to say – So God bless you all

R Southey

Monday 22 March 1819