ng those who did not share her views. Her
errors were noble and arose from a passionate nobility of character, to
which much might be forgiven, if there were much to forgive.

* * * * *

_To Miss Browning_

Rome: [about February 1, 1859].

I am sure Robert has been too long about writing this time, dearest
Sarianna. It did not strike either of us till this morning that it was
so long. We have all been well; and Robert is whirled round and round
so, in this most dissipated of places (to which Paris is really grave
and quiet), that he scarcely knows if he stands on his feet or his
head....

Since Christmas Day I have been out twice, once to see Mr. Page's
gorgeous picture (just gone to Paris), and once to run back again before
the wind; but I am too susceptible. The weather has been glorious to
everybody with some common sense in their lungs. And to-day it is
possible even to _me_, they say, and I am preparing for an effort.

Pen is quite well and rosy. Still we hear of illness, and I am very
particular and nervous about him. All Mr. Hawthorne's family have been
ill one after another, and now he is struck himself with the fever.

Let me remember to say how the professor's letter seemed to say so
much--too much.

Particularly just now. I for one can receive no compliments about
'English honesty' &c., after the ignoble way we are behaving about
Italy. I dare say dear M. Milsand (who doesn't sympathise much with our
Italy) thinks it 'imprudent' of the Emperor to make this move, but that
it is generous and magnanimous he will admit. The only great-hearted
politician in Europe--but chivalry always came from France. The emotion
here is profound--and the terror, among the priests.

Always I expected this from Napoleon, and, if he will carry out his
desire, Peni and I are agreed to kneel down and kiss his feet. The
pamphlet which proceeds from him is magnificent. I said it long ago--to
Jessie White I said it, 'You would destroy,' said I, 'the only man who
has it in his heart and head to do anything for Italy.'

Most happily Robert's and my protestation went to America in time; just
before the present contingency. Yes, Jessie should not have permitted
our names to be used so. Being passive even was a fault--yes, and more
than a fault. Robert is in great spirits and very well indeed....

Ever your most affectionate,
BA.

* * * * *

_To Miss I. Blagde