The Mary Hamilton Papers : Incomplete letter from Lady Catherine Herries (née Foote) to Mary Hamilton

Herries (née Foote), Catherine

The Mary Hamilton Papers

<p style='text-align: justify;'>Incomplete letter from Lady Catherine Herries to Mary Hamilton. The letter continues on the subject of the loss of the drawing of Nina Herries, which Herries discussed in her last letter (HAM/1/17/169).</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>Herries writes of her relief at the news Hamilton had given her in her last letter with regards the drawing of Nina. She notes that Hamilton would not be surprised at her 'suspicions too sadly justified by the general stile of the Character in question' [Herries thought that Hamilton's relation (possibly Robert Hamilton) might have taken the drawing]. She continues, nevertheless, to 'beg' his pardon for 'having entertained them unjustly'. It is unclear who she is referring to though it may be the Chevalier Palombi who had married Elizabeth Dickenson in 1791 (see <a target='_blank' class='externalLink uom-purple' href='https://archiveshub.jisc.ac.uk/manchesteruniversity/data/gb133-ham/ham/1/3/2'>HAM/1/3/2</a>)] but Herries continues on how her 'blood rose' for Hamilton and John Dickenson after reading Hamilton's description of 'his' conduct in Buxton and of 'the still more shocking business about the Servant [...] How black the ingratitude of the Italian Gent: Gentleman indeed only in name'. Herries wonders how someone can so degrade themselves '& act so unworthily even to the meanest individual'. She feels for John Dickenson 'who has to say to himself this being has engaged the affections of a Sister & forever estranged her from friends & country'. Herries continues on this subject.</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>Herries is glad that John Dickenson Senior and Mrs Morrison liked her gifts. She continues with news of her husband, her own and Hamilton's health.</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>Dated at Brighthelmstone.</p>