[November 3, 1813.]

I will keep this celebrated birthday by writing to
you, and as my pen seems inclined to write large,
I will put my lines very close together. I had but
just time to enjoy your letter yesterday before
Edward and I set off in the chair for Canty., and
I allowed him to hear the chief of it as we went
along.

* * * * *

But now I cannot be quite easy without staying a
little while with Henry, unless he wishes it
otherwise; his illness and the dull time of year
together make me feel that it would be horrible of
me not to offer to remain with him, and therefore
unless you know of any objection, I wish you would
tell him with my best love that I shall be most
happy to spend ten days or a fortnight in
Henrietta St., if he will accept me. I do not
offer more than a fortnight, because I shall then
have been some time from home; but it will be a
great pleasure to be with him, as it always is.

* * * * *

Edward and I had a delightful morning for our
drive _there_ [to Canterbury], I enjoyed it
thoroughly; but the day turned off before we were
ready, and we came home in some rain and the
apprehension of a great deal. It has not done us
any harm, however. He went to inspect the gaol, as
a visiting magistrate, and took me with him. I was
gratified, and went through all the feelings which
people must go through, I think, in visiting such
a building. We paid no other visits, only walked
about snugly together and shopped. I bought a
concert ticket and a sprig of flowers for my old
age.

* * * * *

What a convenient carriage Henry's is, to his
friends in general! Who has it next? I am glad
William's going is voluntary, and on no worse
grounds. An inclination for the country is a
venial fault. He has more of Cowper than of
Johnson in him--fonder of tame hares and blank
verse than of the full tide of human existence at
Charing Cross.

Oh! I have more of such sweet flattery from Miss