Regrets that PE was unable to dine with Southey - it was the only day Southey could manage on his return from the Netherlands. Description of the company. He has been discreet on the two matters alluded to in PE's letter.
To PE staying with Sir Benjamin Hallowell (v. 347). Has forwarded by way of loan two volumes of the Dictionnaire de Treize Departements (guide to the Austrian Netherlands), plus a map - to enable PE to travel by his fireside before he departs. Discussion of Brussels' booksellers.
Chained to his desk by the deliberations of Parliament. Of his six weeks vacation, two are promised to another friend, and he will spend three weeks at the seaside with Henry (presumably his brother). May, but probably not, pay a flying visit to Southey (300 miles is too far). Excuses for failing to write. Will really send the book by Barre Roberts (can this be the copy of 357?). Has bought a horse, apparently kept with the Light Horse Volunteers.
Henry - glad to hear of PE's return to England. Domestic (servant with uterine cancer) and work problems for both him and his brother (who also appears to have strained something around his groin - 'somewhere, as sailors say, between wind and water') prevent a trip to Dover. Invites PE to stay in 10 days time. PE seems to have asked for help in obtaining a sextant. G.C. - can only ride gently because of his injury (which is not too bad - no danger of needing to carry his aidoia - Greek = genitalia - in a wheelbarrow).
Difficulties of reading folio volumes printed in diamond types. Can PE recommend an edition of Yerburgius' Cicero in quarto? Is there a modern one from the Clarendon Press?
Bigge has seen a Dr Holland - all are united on the sort of exercise PE should take, and also that he should not go to Paris. Has been to Waddon and heard that PE has enquired about a horse - strongly urges the risks of this, and to allow him and Bigge to purchase a chaise instead. (Note from Wynn - supports Bedford in every detail.)
