no carpets,
and a few chairs and tables, but the situation is divine. We are
near the top of the hill, about half-a-mile above Albano, and have
the most magnificent view in every direction, and such a variety of
delightful walks, that we take a new one every evening. For painting
it is perfect; every step is a picture. At present we have no one
near, and lead the life of hermits; but our friends have loaded us
with books, and with drawing, painting, music, and writing, we never
have a moment idle. Almost every one has left Rome; but the English
have all gone elsewhere, as they are not so easily pleased with a
house as we are. The only gay thing we have done was a donkey ride
yesterday to the top of Monte Cavo, and back by the lake of Nemi....

* * * * *

FROM MRS. SOMERVILLE TO WORONZOW GREIG, ESQ.

ALBANO, _20th August, 1841_.

I dare say you think it very long since you have heard from me, my
dearest Woronzow, but the truth is, I have been writing so hard,
that after I had finished my day's work, I was fit for nothing but
idleness. The reason of my hurry is, that the scientific meeting
takes place at Florence on the 15th of September, and as I think it
probable that some of our English philosophers will come to it, I
hope to have a safe opportunity of sending home some MS. which it
has cost me hard work to get ready, as I have undertaken a book more
fit for the combination of a Society than for a single hand to
accomplish. Lord Brougham was most kind when at Rome, and took so
great an interest in it, that he has, undertaken to read it over,
and give me his opinion and criticism, which will be very valuable,
as I know no one who is a better judge of these matters. He will
send it to Mr. Murray, and you had better consult with him about it,
whether he thinks it will succeed or not. Both William and Martha
like what I have done; but I am very nervous about it, and wish you
would read it if you have time.... We have been extremely quiet all
the summer; we have no neighbours, so that we amuse ourselves with
our occupations. I get up between six and seven, breakfast at eight,
and write till three, when we dine; after dinner, I write again till
near six, when we go out and take a long walk; come home to tea at
nine, and go to bed at eleven: the same thing day a