Northam, where we landed, looked into the 74,
and walked home, and it was so much enjoyed that I
had intended to take them to Netley to-day; the
tide is just right for our going immediately after
moonshine,[186] but I am afraid there will be
rain; if we cannot get so far, however, we may
perhaps go round from the ferry to the quay.

I had not proposed doing more than cross the
Itchen yesterday, but it proved so pleasant, and
so much to the satisfaction of all, that when we
reached the middle of the stream we agreed to be
rowed up the river; both the boys rowed great part
of the way, and their questions and remarks, as
well as their enjoyment, were very amusing;
George's enquiries were endless, and his eagerness
in everything reminds me often _of his Uncle
Henry_.

Our evening was equally agreeable in its way: I
introduced _speculation_,[187] and it was so much
approved that we hardly knew how to leave off.

* * * * *

Of Chawton I think I can have nothing more to say,
but that everything you say about it in the letter
now before me will, I am sure, as soon as I am
able to read it to her, make my mother consider
the plan with more and more pleasure.

Sunday [November 21, 1808].

Your letter, my dear Cassandra, obliges me to
write immediately, that you may have the earliest
notice of Frank's intending, if possible, to go to
Godmersham exactly at the time now fixed for your
visit to Goodnestone.

* * * * *

Your news of Edward Bridges[188] was _quite_ news,
for I have had no letter from Wrotham. I wish him
happy with all my heart, and hope his choice may
turn out according to his own expectations, and
beyond those of his family; and I dare say it
will. Marriage is a great improver, and in a
similar situation Harriet may be as amiable as
Eleanor. As to money, that will come, you may be
sure, because they cannot do without it. When you
see him again, pray give him our congratulations
and best wishes. This match will certa