MS British Library: Coleridge Family Papers E: Add MSS 86206 Yonge JTC 1
My dear Sir John
There was something both strange and cheering in having one of my first really solitary evenings lighted up by the arrival of your precious book, making me live my old life over again, among those who always were and will be the first and nearest to me.2 I have been reading it nearly ever since it came, and have not left myself much time for my warmest and deepest thanks to you for the individual gift as well as for all that it records and fixes for ever.
Reading the book gives me the feeling of having been talking to him – that peculiar sense of soothing and yet of the contrary to self complacency that the Hursley atmosphere always infused. I should think this was a token that the book would leave a true impression upon strangers.
Most affectionately and gratefully yours
C M Yonge