PE less sanguine than he was in November (v.449) - CW advises him to explain himself clearly and unreservedly, preferably to the lady herself, but failing that to her father. Poor news from Wales on CW's prospects and means of living - but at least he receives some proportion of his rents, whereas many Irish landowners receive nothing, their tenantry having abandoned their houses and farms.
Weather too poor for CW to travel to the country (St Mary Cray?). Southey writes seldom - CW disgusted by his public conduct in the face of a difference of opinion. The government expected to have a majority of 90 in both the Lords and the Commons on the Catholic question.
On canvassing on PE's behalf in an election (v.440f). Hopes PE's ankle will allow him to come to town, since he ought to be whipping in his votes. Hears that the Edinburgh Review is about to close, since Jeffrey, Brougham and Horner are too busy with the law to spare time. If true, this will boost the Quarterly Review.
Kidd has sent an agreeable letter concerning PE, which he has shown to Hallam - all PE's friends are indebted to Kidd for his attentions. Lord and Lady Grenville were most kind during Bedford's three days at Dropmore.
On canvassing on PE's behalf in an election (v.440f).Lord Grenville has successfully written to Burton (?), so PE should go and leave his card at Camelford House (Lord G's residence in Park Lane).
Aulus Gellius [Sir William Gell] to PE at the Albergo della Speranzella (possibly in Naples?) re the publication of some papyri, to be dedicated to the King (if the King should disappear, the name can be changed from George to Frederick, George III's 2nd son. No date, but an oblique reference to the dropping of the Pains and Penalties Bill puts it between Nov 1820 and Aug 1821 (death of Queen Caroline). See Horsfall p476f & notes ad loc - perhaps the letter should be dated to late 1820, just after PE's departure from Italy.
