s work in the "Quarterly Review" for
January, 1851; so it must be sent in in November. Wilson refuses, as he is
too busy. I believe you could best write such a review, of about sixteen
pages (L16). If you agree to this, write a line to me or direct to
Eastwick, who would then get a letter from Lockhart with the commission
for you. God help Schleswig-Holstein!

[10.]

LONDON, _October 10, 1850._

You have given me the greatest pleasure, my dear M., by your beautiful
present. Already, last night, I read the new "Greek Songs," and others
that were new to me, with the greatest delight. We have, at all events,
derived one benefit from the great storm,--that the fetters have been taken
off the press. It is a very charming edition, and a beautiful memorial.

As to F----, it seems to me _contra rei naturam_ to arrange anything with
the "Quarterly Review." The channel for such things is now really the
"Edinburgh;" in the "Quarterly" everything not English must be run down,
at all events in appearance, if it is to be appreciated. And now "Modern
German Poetry and F----," and Liberal politics! I cannot understand how F----
could think of such a thing. I will willingly take charge of it for the
"Edinburgh Review." The editor is my political, theological, personal
friend, and sympathizes with me in such things as I consider F----'s
beautiful review will be. I have for years wished for such a one;
epic-lyric poetry has made much greater advances since Goethe's time than
people in Germany (with the one exception of Platen) seem to perceive. It
seems to me, though, that one should begin with the flowers of the
Romantic school of poetry, with Schenkendorf and Koerner,--that is, with the
whole romantic German national epoch, which found Goethe already a retired
philosopher. The whole development, from that time till now, appears to me
as one intimately united whole, even including the present day. Even 1848
to 1850 have furnished their contribution (Arndt's two inspired songs, for
instance); and in 1843-44, Geibel shines as a star of the first magnitude.
Heine is difficult to treat. In fact, I do not think that F---- has read
enough of these poets. He spoke to me lately of an historical work that he
had in view, and which he wished to talk over with me; he meant to come up
to me from the country, but has not yet appeared. He is always welcome,
for he is decidedly a man of genius, and I would willingly help him.

Now to somethin