5 May 1785

Dearest Hester, Most Darling of Daughters,

You are much on my mind and so, today, Iburden you with one of Mother Dearest's dear epistles. You may wonder precisely why you are so greatlyin my thoughts this day above all others. I shall tell you.

Last evening, here at the home I share with the world's most marvelous spouse, your former piano teacher, Mr. Piozzi, friends gathered to hear a rather notorious Frenchwoman... she is the bastard daughter of the infamous Marquis de Sade and I have to admit I am most pleasantly surprised to find I rather enjoy the company of this particular bastard; surprised as muchdue the fact of her close friendship with the insipid Frances Burney (You remember that little pecking mouse, my darling?) as the fact of the Frenchwoman's birth in an improper state (the state of bastardity, one might call it) and her religion. This most delightful creature is not only an FOF (friend of Fanny) and a bastard, she is a Catholic! Still, I find her company most pleasing. Her name is, by the way, Lorsagne. Oh dear, it seems I have wandered far off the planned path for this letter, which was to tell you that Lorsagne, the Frenchwoman, read to us all last night. There were several residents of Rocca Sorrentina present to hear the lady. There were the very astute Aldo Stern, who is a professore and magistrate of this village, and Lady Sere Timeless, whose beauty seems to grow with each passing week. There was an older woman who joined us late, Mistress Merry Chase. I find her very amusing and never tire of her freedom with words and opinions. Of course, your new father, my husband, was present. There were several others as well and all were most pleasant company.

Lorsagne read to us from Lady Mary Montague and Lady Sarah Pennington. Both of these women's letters were addressed to their daughters. I know you find me over-bearing sometimes, but I can assure you I am not the mother tyrant Lady Mary Montague appears to be! She is not at all stingy with her advice for her daughters and I am sure they benefit from her wisdom, though I am equally sure they would never acknowledge the benefit. Is this a shared trait of all women with regard to their own mothers?

Best surprise of all was thatMlle. de Sade read to us from Dr. Johnson! (Oh how Imiss my old friend! I do hope you have fond memories of the years he resided in Streatham Park with us. Such a brilliant companion, he was!) The Frenchwoman chose Dr. Johnson's Betty Broom letter. It was a delight, hearing it read aloud once more.

I should also like to tell you that the gathering was held on the Piozzi terrace, overlooking the harbor. The sea air was fresh and warm. There were sea birds all around and a catwho visited from I know not where.I served wonderful fruit tarts purchased from a local baker, along with brandy and, of course, tea. (You see, I have not forgotten I am an English woman -- not for a single moment!) The entire evening was a delight!

I do hope you are well my dear. Please take a few moments to put pen to paper and communicate with your loving Mama. I do so miss my girl.

With Maternal Devotion,

From Mother