When I saw M^rs Hoare,

it was my full intention, & M^r Barbauld’s to offer ourselves to our Hampstead friends, & when I went to London that afternoon, I hoped not to return without having seen you, but by the time I got to London, where I only drank tea with M^rs Kinder,

I was very glad to get home again, for the extreme hot weather we have had lately, has weakened me a good deal, & I found it necessary to recruit by perfect quiet—I dare not therefore just
at

[fol 1^v] at present make any engagement, but as soon as I find myself a little stouter, which may be in a few days, I will let you know, & in the mean time beg M^rs Rickards not to wait for us in making her engagement with M^r Tooke

&c—I do indeed think it a long time since we met, & shall with the greatest pleasure visit Hampstead as soon as I am fit to offer myself to you. With most affectionate remembrances to M^rs Rickards, I am dearest Lydia, Yours ever