oss--but perhaps, in compensation (who knows?), I shall be in for
an Austrian bombardment or brigandage, or something as good or bad. But,
after all, you are not to be anxious about us because of a jest of mine.
We have Tuscan troops on the frontier, and French troops in the city,
and although the Duchess of Parma has graciously given leave, they say,
to the Austrians to cross her dominions in order to get into Tuscany, we
shall be well defended. We are all full of hope and calm, and never
doubt of the result. If ever there was a holy cause it is this; if ever
there was a war on which we may lawfully ask God's blessing, it is this.
The unanimity and constancy of the Italian people are beautiful to
witness. The affliction of ten years has ripened these souls. Never was
a contrast greater than what is to-day and what was in '48. No more
distrust, nor division, nor vacillation, and a gratitude to the French
nation which is quite pathetic.

Peni is all in a glow about Italy, and wishes he was 'great boy enough'
to fight. Meantime he does his lessons for the fighters--half a paul a
day when he is good.

Mr. del Bene thought him much improved in his music, and I hope he gets
on in other things, and that when we bring him back to you (crowned with
Italian laurels), you will think so too. Meanwhile think of us and love
us, dearest Nonno. I always think of your kindness to me.

Your ever affectionate Daughter,
BA.

* * * * *

_To Mr. Ruskin_

Casa Guidi: June 3, [1859].

My dear Mr. Ruskin,--We send to you every now and then somebody hungry
for a touch from your hand; we who are famished for it ourselves. But
this time we send you a man whom you will value perfectly for himself
and be kind to from yourself, quite spontaneously. He is the American
artist, Page, an earnest, simple, noble artist and man, who carries his
Christianity down from his deep heart to the point of his brush. Draw
him out to talk to you, and you will find it worth while. He has learnt
much from Swedenborg, and used it in his views upon art. Much of it (if
new) may sound to you wild and dreamy--but the dream will admit of
logical inference and philosophical induction, and when you open your
eyes, it is still there.

He has not been successful in life--few are who are uncompromising in
their manner of life. When I speak of life, I include art, which is life
to him. I should like you to see what a wonder of light and