The Mary Hamilton Papers : Letter from Lady Catherine Herries (née Foote) to John Dickenson

Herries (née Foote), Catherine

The Mary Hamilton Papers

<p style='text-align: justify;'>Letter from Lady Catherine Herries to John Dickenson. The letter relates to his wife Mary Hamilton's health and, briefly, to news of Hamilton's relations in Naples: Sir William and Lady Hamilton and Mrs Palombi.</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>Herries writes to thank Dickenson for his own letter to her which has relieved her worry at Hamilton's long silence. 'It is only however from suspence [<i>sic</i>] that I am relieved - for your account of her health gives me heartfelt Concern'. She continues, noting that Dickenson must have been very 'miserable' but hopes that the worst is now over and that 'the Doctor's prophecy will very soon be accomplished'. She informs Dickenson that when Hamilton is able to write her a long letter then she should send it enclosed to Lord Torphichen in Little Ryder Street, St James's. She asks Dickenson to assure Hamilton that all her friends in London do not doubt her love and that she will inform Mrs Carter the cause of her silence and any other friends who mention it.</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>The letter continues with news of Hamilton's relations in Naples. Herries often hears about Sir William and Lady Hamilton via her friend Miss Bowdler [currently in Naples], who notes that 'Lady H: is admired & loved by every body'. She continues that her friend also writes of Hamilton's sister-in-law, Mrs Palombi (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>), who 'was but poorly with the ills usually attending an increasing State [pregnancy] -- that she seemed low -- (not unhappy however for that she & her Husband seemed fond of each other & he very kind in his manner to her)'. Herries also writes that the Palombis had noted their concern to Miss Bowdler of not hearing from Hamilton for some time. 'I only mention all this to you - leaving you two to judge intirely [<i>sic</i>] what you like to do'. She will inform Miss Bowdler of Hamilton's illness when she next writes.</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>Herries ends her letter writing of her 'sorrow' that the Dickensons are 'still as much plagued as ever with H [possibly referring to Robert Hamilton, who stayed with them until the summer 1792] - He is one there is no changing I am well convinced'.</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>Dated at St. James's Street, [London].</p>