17 December 1816 – Tuesday – continuation from previous day

[Continuation of a letter begun the previous day, written to Jane Austen’s nephew, James Edward Austen]

Tuesday.— Ah! ha!– Mr Edward, I doubt your seeing Uncle Henry at Steventon to day.  The weather will prevent your expecting him, I think.– Tell your Father, with Aunt Cass:’s Love & mine, that the Pickled Cucumbers are extremely good, & tell him also– “tell him what you will”; No, don’t tell him what you will, but tell him that Grandmama begs him to make Joseph Hall pay his Rent if he can.  You must not be tired of reading the word Uncle, for I have not done with it.  Uncle Charles thanks your Mother for her Letter; it was a great pleasure to him to know the parcel was received & gave so much satisfaction; & he begs her to be so good as to give Three Shillings for him to Dame Staples, which shall be allowed for in the payment of her debt here.–

I am happy to tell you that Mr Papillon will soon make his offer, probably next Monday, as he returns on Saturday.– His intention can be no longer doubtful in the smallest degree, as he has secured the refusal of the House which Mrs Baverstock at present occupies in Chawton & is to vacate soon, which is of course intended for Mrs Elizth Papillon.–

Adeiu Amiable!– I hope Caroline behaves well to you.

Yours affecly
J. Austen

James Edward Austen Esqre
Steventon