83. Robert Bloomfield to George Bloomfield, 3 May 1802* 

May 3, City Road 1802

Dear George

For some months past I have threaten'd to write largely to you on several subjects which interest my feelings and engage my thoughts, but I have hitherto been unable to do it. I have now been writing to Troston and have but little time to talk to you, as usual. By reading the Troston letters you will gain much information. I am dog-sick of this uproar of wonderment and peeping curiosity. My Rhumatism plagues me sadly.

I send you two Reviews of my Tales, and in one you will find Holloway's poem spoken of. [1]  Send them back at 9, Nat has not seen them. when you reflect on the Antijacobin's treatment of Mr L recolect that they are avowd partizans on the side of existing Systems, and existing abuses, and that I may think myself well off to have escaped their lash. [2]  The 'British' talk plain cool truth to Mr L I wish he would hear it and give it its weight. [3] —The Monthly and Critical are yet to come; perhaps next month. Southey wrote the article respecting the Farmer's Boy, which appeard in the Critical; and most likely will have the same task as to the Tales. [4] —I am not afraid of any of them now; the worst is past.

Forward the enclosed to Dr. P. it is to request the return of a scrap about Pope's willow—  [5] 

I am sorry to make your time so short as you will find it between the 4^th at night and the eighth at night, but Sunday intervened and many engagements; I could not send sooner. the same reasons prevent my writing to my Mother. Remember me to all friends—

Love to your Wife and Children—I am a sad dog of an Uncle, I have never sent Kitty her Book yet, and she is now at the right age to read it but I here renew the promise to send 'Nature and Art' as soon as I can think to buy it—

Dont let the Winter drops fall upon our old friend at Honington; how much would the Roof cost.?

Yours,

Robert

P.S Be carefull of the Ribbon in the Troston parcell, I had a charge with it —