His wife is a fortnight overdue - has been drawing a vignette of Michael Scott's grave from the Lay of the Last Minstrel, and CW asks PE's opinion of a Latin epitaph he has composed for his wife to inscribe on the tombstone. Is learning Welsh.
Thanks PE for his epitaphs (v.414) - asks for advice on coats of arms for the picture. Of politics - so little ability on either side, and so much arrogance, that he wishes to stay away.
George Bremner seeks admission to the Charterhouse Hospital as a pensioner. John Elmsley (d.1805) had been appointed Chief Justice of Upper Canada through a connection with the Home Secretary, the Duke of Portland (a governor of Charterhouse). Bremner (presumably known to John) asks PE, as brother of John, to recommend him to the Duke (currently PM).
Wynn (CWW - OW - and co-author with Southey and Bedford of The Flagellant) has had a second daughter - Bedford (not a family man) wishes to send him a mould for a son, bemoaning the probably wasted expense of rearing daughters. Southey is in town - proposes a joint visit to St Mary Cray.
Has not yet been able to leave his parents for a single day. But hopes to visit PE with Southey.
Unable to organise means of travel to come and stay with PE. Love to the ladies and the 'bratlets.'
Trying to propose a visit and a time for it (plus a projected trip to Knowle Park). Regards to PE's mother and Mrs John Elmsley, and good wishes to the 'little angels.'
J Parker (uncle? Helensburgh near Glasgow) - progress of a court case to do with a trust - some gossip, remarks on Bonaparte, and family news
Recommends a doctor.
The Covent Garden fire of 21st September - has heard that Mackinley's bookbinders has been affected, and fears that some mss. of his brother may have been lost (inc. the White Book of Hergest?). Asks PE to buy some books at Lackington's bookstore (inc. a 3rd and 4th folio). Would like to write about Walter Scott's 'false heraldry,' but has been required by Lord Hawkesbury to write on local militia.