'Carreta,' the
pet name that her husband always gave her. Dr. Knapp points out that
'carreta' means a Spanish dray-cart, and that 'carita,' 'my dear,' was
probably meant. But, careless as was the famous word-master over the
spelling of words in the tongues that he never really mastered
scientifically, he could scarcely have made so obvious a blunder as
this, and there must have been some particular experience in the lives
of husband and wife that led to the playful designation.[142] Here are
the two letters:

To George Borrow, Esq.

GRENVILLE PLACE, BRIGHTON, SUSSEX.

MY DARLING HUSBAND,--I am thankful to say that I arrived here
quite safe on Saturday, and on Wednesday I hope to see you at
home. We may not be home before the evening about six o'clock,
sooner or later, so do not be anxious, as we shall be careful.
We took tea with the Edwards at six o'clock the day I came;
they are a very kind, nice family. You must take a walk when we
come home, but remember now we have a young servant, and do not
leave the house for very long together. The air here is very
fresh, and much cooler than in London, and I hope after the
five days' change I shall be benefited, but I wish to come home
on Wednesday. See to all the doors and windows of a night, and
let Jane keep up the chain, and lock the back door by the hop
plant before it gets dark. Our love to Lady Soame.--And with
our best love to you, believe me, your own

CARRETA.

_Sunday morning, 10 o'clock._

If I do not hear from you I shall conclude all is well, and you
may do the same with regard to us. Have the tea ready a little
before six on Wednesday. Henrietta is wonderfully improved by
the change, and sends dear and best love to you.

To George Borrow, Esq.

33 GRENVILLE PLACE, BRIGHTON, SUSSEX.
_Thursday morning_.

MY DEAR HUSBAND,--As it is raining again this morning I write a
few lines to you. I cannot think that we have quite so much
rain as you have at Brompton, for I was out _twice_ yesterday,
an hour in the morning in a Bath chair, and a little walk in
the evening on the Marine Parade, and I have been out little or
much every day, and hope I feel a little better. Our dear
Henrietta likewise says that she feels the better for the air
and change. A