As Mrs.Elmy's share of the estate would come to her children, and as the unmarried sister died not long after, leaving her portion in the same direction, Crabbe's anxiety for the pecuniary future of his family was at an end.

He visited Parham on executor's business, and on his return found that he had made up his mind "to place a curate at Muston, and to go and reside at Parham, taking the charge of some church in that neighbourhood." Crabbe's son, with the admirable frankness that marks his memoir throughout, does not conceal that this step in his father's life was a mistake, and that he recognised and regretted it as such on cooler reflection.

The comfortable home of the Tovells at Parham fell somehow, whether by the will, or by arrangement with Mrs.Elmy, to the disposal of Crabbe, and he was obviously tempted by its ampler room and pleasant surroundings.

He would be once more among relatives and acquaintances, and a social circle congenial to himself and his wife.

Muston must have been very dull and lonely, except for those on visiting terms with the duke and other county magnates.