May 1881, Audley End House, Essex.
Dear Mr Townsend, I hope this letter finds you well and enjoying pleasant weather.
Here in Essex, a little north of London, we have suffered heavy rain of late but look
forward to more delicate Spring weather.
I have been handed a letter from yourself by Lady Braybrooke who has asked that I send
you a taste of England - and in particular dishes she enjoys here at Audley End House.
I have tried my best to send you items that I’ve read are not commonly eaten or indeed
cooked in America.
Please find within a fruit cake, or often called a plum cake.
This cake is much loved by all in England and the recipe I’ve used comes from a very
special cook - Mr Francatelli, and therefore could be used for any special occasion if
suitably decorated.
I have enclosed some tea, as I believe we are famous for our tea drinking.
Laterly, we have seen quite an explosion in India teas and this is a tea that both myself
and Lady Braybrooke greatly prefer.
Finally I enclose a seed cake, a plain but popular cake.
It is an old recipe and I believe in history they coated the caraway seeds in sugar.
Today it is often enjoyed with fortified wine.
I have also included, for your reference, the recipes of each of the cakes.
I hope you enjoy them.
If you have a moment to send me a few lines to say you have recieved my parcel in good
order I would be greatful.
Yours respectfully, Avis Crocombe.
Cook to Lord Braybrooke.