1135. Robert Southey to Charles Danvers, 29 December 1805 ⁠* 

My dear Charles

Nearly a fortnight ago I sent you a draft at sight on Longman for forty pounds – during this time I have been so unwell that I have not till now recollected that you have not acknowledged it. If it should not have arrived write to stop payment – tho I fear it may be too late. [1] 

I am recovering, I hope, from a smart attack of influenza – & before I am well Edith is taken with it. We hope that tonight & tomorrow mornings doses of James’s powder [2]  will leave me able to begin upon bark [3]  but I am very weak – head still aching – pulse still out of order – nights restless &c – however certainly on the recovery. Edith is very poorly indeed.

Your last letter should have crossed mine with the draft on the road. the Cid is the right book. [4]  your stories of the Methodists come just in time. tell me in your next the servants exact explanation of Pinch & Plain – I am not quite sure whether the articles to be forwarded were Scotch Coals or Wax Candles – or Cards instead of the former. It is a symptom of recovery that I ask the question.

We are very uncomfortable about Coleridge who would be at Venice just about the time of its capture. [5]  – Tom well but can get no letters from any body. Do write to him that he x may have a chance the more.

God bless you –

RS.

Sunday. Dec. 29. 1805.