203. Robert Bloomfield to Mary Lloyd Baker, 14 March 1807* 

Shepherd & Shepherdess

March 14, 1807

Dear Madam

I am in good health, but the spiritual part of me is but so so. Therefore expect a short letter containing two or three compact little truths, which I hope will serve as substitutes for a longer gossip. First then, I owe you my best thanks for your letter and your enquiries; your idea of my being in the road to publish what I can gather as to the nature of the Harp, is wrong. I only thought of printing a few copies for private distribution to such of my customers as profess'd to know nothing on the subject, and just to make it pay its own expence, and stand as a profess'd compilation on that particular themes. [1]  It would save me much talking, and that to me is a material thing.

Mrs B. is still upon her legs. My children all well. The Boy has no complaint but lameness.—

I have had two interviews with Dr Crotch. My musical Brother is in town, and hopes to print the Anthemn by subscription amongst the good folks of Suffolk and elsewhere. [2]  I return Homer with grateful thanks to Mr L. I have been very carefull of it, and the soild pages 88 and 460 are none of mine. See how I defend myself before I am accused!! I will write again when in better humour—My constant blessing and good wishes attend you and all your worthy family. Farewell,

R Bloomfield

Eolian Harps should be tuned in unison or octaves.—and in no other way but you had better suffer me to make you a better than you have in exchange I should particularly wish it. I will say more anon.—

Address: Mrs Baker