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?).

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.

His mother asks PE to buy some books. Thanks PE for some verses

Cannot answer a query of PE's, but Sir William Drummond (of the Society of Dilettanti) is in London and might help. The Society has given up a project to buy a house in which to deposit its collection. Has written a speech on Leicester's proposal for substituting trial by impeachment for trial by information in the case of Lord Melville - adds PE to reduce the length, for publication in Cobbett (Political Register?). Vaguely propose a trip to Scotland with PE and Southey.

Asks PE to call by to read some letters to do with an election (?).

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.

On the earliest use of the term 'Protestant' in an English act (the Scottish Act of 1567).

Thanks PE for letter. The elections are over.

From Barmouth, where his wife and children are enjoying the sea air and bathing. Travel arrangements for PE to come to Llangedwyn (spend the night at Oswestry, and continue after breakfast, which he supposes will finish by 1 or 2 o'clock). Asks PE to bring or send down a number of books and periodicals.

Tuesday, so perhaps 1810. Long time no hear.