Between Guildford and
Ripley I thought it particularly pretty, also about Painshill; and
from a Mr. Spicer's grounds at Esher, which we walked into before
dinner, the views were beautiful. I cannot say what we did not see,
but I should think there could not be a wood, or a meadow, or palace,
or remarkable spot in England that was not spread out before us on one
side or other. Claremont is going to be sold: a Mr. Ellis has it now.
It is a house that seems never to have prospered. After dinner we
walked forward to be overtaken at the coachman's time, and before he
did overtake us we were very near Kingston. I fancy it was about half-
past six when we reached this house--a twelve hours' business, and the
horses did not appear more than reasonably tired. I was very tired
too, and glad to get to bed early, but am quite well to-day. I am
very snug in the front drawing-room all to myself, and would not say
"thank you" for any company but you. The quietness of it does me
good. I have contrived to pay my two visits, though the weather made
me a great while about it, and left me only a few minutes to sit with
Charlotte Craven.
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