3642. Robert Southey to Henry Herbert Southey, 27 February 1821⁠* 

My dear Harry

To my very great surprize Tom said to me this morning that he should like to go to Algoa Bay [1]  if any thing could be got for him, I told him I did not know that any thing was to be had except a grant of land, in which, probably, interest might be of some use as far as regarded situation; – & perhaps in the first instance employment to take charge of some settlers, if more were sent out, which would enable him to look out for himself, – this being what he proposed, to go & make preparations, while Sarah could live upon her own means, & upon Miss Wilbrahams payments. [2]  We talked about it, somewhat vaguely, but on my part so as to encourage him in the only sensible plan he can adopt, & the only way which is open to him for securing an independence for himself & his children; & he desired me to make inquiry whether there was any appointment which could be obtained for him there, or what he might expect. – I will set Bedford to feel the way, thro Herries, & when we know what is to be done, then try what I can do with Croker. If you can learn any thing, of course you will. It is very well that he ventures to look at his situation fairly, & that this thought should have occurred to his own mind, as it has long since done to yours & mine.

Can you find xx out the history of a M^rs Attersoll, – a woman of fashion & fortune, who has lately been unmarried, or rather dismarried, [3]  I know not by what process, nor for what good cause, & resuming the name of her father [4] is xxx now calls herself (writing from France) Madame S. Anne Holmes. Her father lives in Manchester St. Manchester Square. – She is certainly an odd personage, as well as a clever one, & seems in some things to resemble the poor Senhora. I should tell you that she is the Lady to whom one of the French translations of Roderic [5]  is dedicated, – & she favours me not only with her high approbation, – but also with letters nicely written upon the finest French paper, & sealed with yellow wax in the most delicate manner.

In making out a presentation list I totally forgot to order one for Kn Sir W^m K. – which of course ought to have been done. By this post I supply the omission, – it shall be sent to you with the bag & sword copy [6]  – & you will say what civil things with it you please.

What news of Miss Tyler?

Love to Louisa & the children & M^rs Gonne –

God bless you

Yrs affectionately

RS.

Keswick. 27 Feb^y. 1821.