2464. Robert Southey to John Rickman, 2 August [1814] ⁠* 

2^d. August

My dear R.

I give you joy of your instalment. [1]  May you partake of the longevity which has hitherto been attached to the Table, as well as of its other advantages. [2] 

My bust arrived here to day broken all to pieces, & the inclosed is to set Smith [3]  upon recovering its cost from the carriers. When I see the fragments I am indeed surprized at the modesty of the artists charge.

This evening I begin to transcribe my second vol. of Brazil, to send it to the press as soon forthwith. [4]  About Spain I am totally in the dark, & have very little doubt that Abella is in durance. The Reformers must now make terms with the old King, & play off Carlos against Fernando. [5]  The game would then be in their favour. Meantime the colonies are left to themselves, & cruelties & excesses of every kind are laying them waste.

Of my poem [6]  there remain 15 sheets to print, of which the printer has the larger half in his hands, & the rest I hope are on their way home from their travels. You will receive it in about five weeks. It is a poem sui generis. [7]  Its character deeply tragical, – but every where rather of an elevating than a distressing nature. – Remember me to Mrs R. – I wish you would tell me that you were about to bring her to Keswick.

God bless you

RS.