learned to know the risks, not to health only or chiefly, for that,
precious as it was, seemed a trifle in comparison with other
things, but to the power of serving his country, to friendship, to
reputation in the highest sense, which are involved in the
formation of a Government. These are matters of experience, and in
1846 I was inexperienced and consequently foresaw only good to the
country and increase of fame to him from his acceptance of the
Prime Ministership. I now know that these seldom or never in such a
state of parties as has existed for many years and still exists,
can be the _only_ consequences of high office for him,
although, thank God, they have always been _among_ the
consequences, and my only reasonable and permanent regret (for I
don't pretend to the absence of passing and unreasonable regrets)
is for the _cause_ of office being over for him. What a letter
full of _John_, and just when I ought to be talking of
everybody else except _John_; but you will guess that if he
were not perfectly cheerful--and he is more, he is full of
patriotic eagerness--I could not write all this.... Thanks for your
sympathy about Johnny--we were _very_ sorry, I need not
say[71].... I don't at all mind the beating, which has been a
glorious one in every way, but I _immensely_ mind his not
being in Parliament....

Your most affectionate sister, F.R.

[71] Lord Amberley was defeated in the General Election.

Mr. Charles Dickens to Lady Russell

GAD'S HILL PLACE, HIGHAM BY ROCHESTER, KENT

Saturday, December 26, 1868

MY DEAR LADY RUSSELL,--... I cannot tell you how highly I esteem
your kind Christmas remembrances, or how earnestly I send all
seasonable wishes to you and Lord Russell and all who are dearest
to you. I am unselfishly glad that Lord Russell is out of the
turmoil and worry of a new Administration, but I miss him from it
sorely. I was saying only yesterday to Layard (who is staying
here), that I could not get over the absence of that great Liberal
name from a Liberal Government, and that I lost heart without it.

Ever faithfully yours,

CHARLES DICKENS

_Lady Russell to Lady Victoria Villiers_

PEMBROKE LODGE, _February_ 4, 1869

We have had such a gay time of it--that is, from Saturday to Monday
only; but we have had such a quiet life in gene