My dear Mr. H.,
Faithfully yours,
W.W.[134]
87. Of 'Elia:' Miss Wordsworth.
LETTER TO CHARLES LAMB, ESQ.
Rydal Mount [Friday, May 17. 1833, or thereabouts].
MY DEAR LAMB,
I have to thank you and Moxon for a delightful volume, your last (I hope not) of 'Elia.' I have read it all except some of the 'Popular Fallacies,' which I reserve.... The book has much pleased the whole of my family, viz. my wife, daughter, Miss Hutchinson, and my poor dear sister, on her sick bed; they all return their best thanks. I am not sure but I like the 'Old China,' and the 'Wedding,' as well as any of the Essays. I read 'Love me and my Dog' to my poor sister this morning.
I have been thus particular, knowing how much you and your dear sister value this excellent person, whose tenderness of heart I do not honestly believe was ever exceeded by any of God's creatures. Her loving-kindness has no bounds. God bless her for ever and ever! Again thanking you for your excellent book, and wishing to know how you and your dear sister are, with best love to you both from us all,
I remain, my dear Lamb,
Your faithful friend,
W. WORDSWORTH.[135]
88. 'Specimens of English Sonnets:' Criticisms, &c.
LETTER TO THE REV. ALEXANDER DYCE.