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?).
Wynnstay (the family home in Denbighshire). Apparently giving advice to PE on how to woo and propose to a woman (PE described as 'naturally shy'). Dated 'Sunday'.
Charles Burney has described PE as among the first scholars of the present day. Has visited William Vincent and William Carey (a new broom sweeping remarkably clean). His trunk has been cut from behind his carriage, so he has lost all his wardrobe, and his great coat has been purloined by Mullens (OW John?).
Request for PE to buy a pair of oval compasses for Mr Wingfield (cf.391?). Regrets that the paths of literature and politics keep them apart. Suggestion to visit Southey at Keswick in August.
Asks PE to buy Ritson's Songs, vellum or Morocco - a present for a lady - together with last three volumes of Madame (de) Genlis' Petits Romans. Southey's brother dismissed from his ship by court martial - but officer who replaced him lost his life in action.
