The Mary Hamilton Papers : Letter from Francis Napier, 8th Lord Napier, to Mary Hamilton

Napier, Francis Scott, 8th Lord

The Mary Hamilton Papers

<p style='text-align: justify;'>Letter from Francis Napier, 8th Lord Napier, to Mary Hamilton, concerning general family news. Napier assures Hamilton that his heart is not wounded and the danger of the 'Herts Beauties is not very alarming'. He is not quite sure if his heart has 'renounced its allegiance to' [blank space] and he writes that he often thinks of her when walking alone. Turning to a letter Hamilton has received from Dickenson, Napier advises that it is now up to Hamilton to accept or reject Dickenson's marriage proposal. Napier also writes of Lady Cathcart and describes her as determined if not 'obstinate'. The Atholl's had not informed her of the birth if their child and he wishes that they would be less careless as a 'little civility would please'.</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>Napier is pleased that Hamilton has been bathing and notes that it will benefit her health and also suggests horse-riding as a beneficial activity. For his part he 'seldom affronts [...] [his] feet' and on occasions drives an open chaise.</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>Dated at Tewin Water [Hertfordshire].</p>