Blackwell Family
Blackwell, Marian
General Corresp.
Titterton, FrancesJan. 12th 97

The Laurels
College Road
Cheshunt.

My dear Mainy
I am so glad
to hear better
accounts of you
and that you are
not in pain.
I do hope you
received my letters
saying how much
I liked the xmasrather inclined to throw her work upon the good-natured cook. It has done worlds of good for the moment and so my little household goes on quietly as before. Diane has got over a very bad boil she had just where she sits down and it was wonderful with what perfect confidence she allowd me to clan and dress the place. She is really just like a child, and follows me about like my shadow. Jack has also goycards showing the view of Rock House and also of the Esplanade near the Grosvenor where I spent such a pleasant month and I used to watch the Postman bringing me a letter from Harry every morning, for it was

just at the time when that now kindest and best of husbands was courting me. He is not very well, but the weather is so dreadful that it is no wonder. I have had to give my young house maid a talking to, she wasdown and it was wonderful with what perfect confidence she allowed me to clean and dress the place. She is really just like a child, and follows me about like my shadow. Jack has also gotover his sprain. My poor sister in law [?] still utterly miserable and the poor soul is now suffering from abscesses, one on her finger had to be lanced and she has had them on her eyelids. She wishes to come 

to us in April, but I doubt she will ever have the courage to cross the water, although she is so changed since poor John's death. I had a pleasant letter from Mme de Bruyn, who when I saw her in Londonasked much after you. Harry begs me to say with his love, "that he hopes Miss Marian will command him if there is any thing he can do for her in London." I am coming dear when you feel you would like to see me and with love to your self dear and Miss. A.
Ever your devoted Frances