To begin, we have received some astonishing news from Bath. I do not know if I am at liberty to relate it, as it concerns Lady Catherine, but if Mr. Gardiner were to write to my husband, I am sure he would tell you all.

We are also very grateful for Jane’s easy delivery, and Georgiana is delighted to be named as her god-mother—so pleased is she, that her pride may eclipse that of the parents. And, as there are now five little Bingleys, perhaps Jane might generously consent to be somewhat less fond as a mother, so that her aunt may claim the greater share of admiration for her tiny fingers and toes.

To-day we were fortunate that a clergyman of the Church of England in Dorsetshire, travelling for the health of himself and his family, was also resident in our hôtel. A room was obtained for his reading of Church prayers for the benefit of those of us preferring Protestant service. We later learnt that our land-lord was roundly abused by the village priest for allowing such a service to occur in his establishment. In order to repay the land-lord for his kindness, some of our fellow residents later attended the Romish mass at the Catholick Church, and were much interested with the performance of the service, and the simple and rustic appearance of the congregation. I am hopeful that their penance procured the good land-lord’s pardon. However, I understand from some of our fellow travellers that, in Heidelberg, there is the same church used for both Protestant and Romish services, so the Priest taking such offense is truly unaccountable, especially as they all the same speak the German language in their daily lives. We are to visit Heidelberg on our return journey, and then I may be able to give you a better explanation of this strange etiquette.