J.J. Conybeare on reasons for not entering the election for Public Orator. Congratulate PE on Alban Hall, and hopes he will not now be above gossip. Has written to the Dean of Ch Ch explaining his feelings about the Public Oratorship.
Re a cousin of PE who wishes to go to Cambridge (for first degree and then a fellowship). B believes Trinity is the only college to offer fellowships to Scotchmen. Has applied a little too late, and may be better advised to go up in October 1822.
2nd volume of Poetae Minores in the Press. Asks for PE's comments on the 1st volume, to be included before the index. Lord Spencer has given him a duplicate copy of Theocritus (?) printed by Calliergus. Respect for Museum Criticum, but no time or wish to write for it. Valpy at the Classical Journal ignored TG's wishes concerning a piece of his, 'though the Journal itself is improving. Neither publication concerned to using best editions.
Uses compasses (v.398) as excuse for not writing sooner, but in truth has been busy with 'the infernal defence of the country.' Abortive visit to Hafod (Uchtryd), arranged by his elder brother, to visit Thomas Johnes and the house, and to see the Froissart ms. (Johnes' translation?) - saw no more than the outside of the larder and library. Four days at Keswick with Southey - mornings spent scrambling among mountains and waterfalls, evenings reading Madoc and Portuguese History (NB latter never finished only Part 1 published, The History of Brazil). Miss (2nd daughter Edith?) promises to be 'a finer child than her predecessor' (Margaret, died aged 1 in 1803?).