|
'The Llanofer Circle'
consisted of a large number of friends and relatives. The county families
of Wales, scholars, politicians and diplomats as well as members of the
royal family all received a warm welcome at Llanofer and at Lord and Lady
Llanofer's London house.
One of these was Elizabeth Brown Greenly born in Herefordshire in 1771. A Welsh speaker and
an ardent supporter of the Welsh causes of the day, Lady Greenly was a very
close friend of Mrs. Waddington, Lady Llanofer's mother, and no doubt had
some influence on the young Augusta, encouraging her interest in the
country of her birth, its language and culture.
Another early influence on Augusta was Carnhuanawc, the Rev. Thomas Price, born in Breconshire in 1787.
They met at the Brecon Eisteddfod of 1826, said to be the first eisteddfod
which Augusta attended. His speech at this eisteddfod, extolling the
virtues of the Welsh language, was taken to heart by the enthusiastic young
woman, and the two became firm friends, working together for the good of
the country they both loved, and the welfare of its people.
Betha
Johnes, younger daughter of Judge
John Johnes of Dolaucothi, was born in 1834. Her mother died when she
was quite young, and it was Lady Llanofer who 'brought her out' in London
Society. She became very close to Lady Llanofer, and they
corresponded regularly.
Henry Brinley Richards was a pianist and composer. Born in Carmarthen in 1817,
he settled in London where he taught the piano and lectured in Welsh music.
He was one of the supporters of the triple harp, and adjudicated at harp
competitions.
The Williams family of Aberpergwm were well-known to Lord and Lady
Llanofer, and Maria Jane Williams (Llinos) was a particular friend of the
Arglwyddes.
She is not to be confused with Jane Williams (Ysgafell) who was the editor
of The Literary Remains of The Rev. Thomas Price, Carnhaunawc,
published in 1854.
|
