MS Westcountry Studies Library, Exeter/ Yonge 1856/2.
Dear Madam,
I cannot deny myself the pleasure of writing to tell you how much your Thorns and Roses have already elicited of admiration. 1 One of my best contributors (the School Sketches) has written this morning ‘you must let me say how much charmed I & all here are with the beautiful tale, Thorns &c Is it a secret absolutely whose authorship it is, or is it permissible to ask whether it is by a young writer untried before. If so, we may hope for much more.’
I did not give up your secret, but I am sure you will not dislike reading the enquiry.
I heard too this morning that our neighbour, a distinguished M. P. sat up to finish it, and was greatly pleased with it. I am hoping soon to begin Wishop Rectory.
Meantime I shall have the pleasure of sending you £6 for your three papers inserted this year – and Miss Frances Smith £2.. 2.. 6.2 Perhaps it would save trouble if I were to include both in one cheque, but I will wait to hear from you or from her.
With my best thanks to both – and hopes for future hope of the same valuable kind
yours truly
C M Yonge