GROSVENOR SQUARE, _January 18th, 1805._

Here we are established as of old and beginning our usual
avocations.... Our Opera-box we like extremely. I generally take some
young woman, which makes us cheerful. Miss Glyn [1] was of my party
one night, and was well pleased. Little Roscius [2] appeared again
to-night. I almost despair of seeing him, though I will try.

On Saturday morning, Marianne and I and five or six hundred others
went to hear Mr Sydney Smith [3] lecture upon the _Conduct of the
Human Understanding_. His voice is fine and he is well satisfied
with himself. I cannot say we came away much wiser, but we were well
amused. I hear that Mr Smith protests that all women of talent are
plain.

Lady de Clifford [4] is to be Governess to Princess Charlotte, Mrs and
Miss Trimmer [5] the acting ones. I doubt the mother accepting the
appointment. On the 25th February there is to be a grand ball at
Windsor.


[Illustration: MRS. TRIMMER]


_Marianne Spencer-Stanhope to John Spencer-Stanhope_.
GROSVENOR SQUARE, _February 1st, 1805._

MY DEAR JOHN,

I fear you will have thought me long in performing my promise, but as