"Post passing!" I must end, in mid-course; so much still
untouched upon. Thanks for Sampson & Co., and let them go their
course upon me. If I can see Mrs. --- about the end of September
or after, I shall be right glad:--but I fear she will have fled
before that?--

I am here in my native Country, riding, seabathing, living on
country diet,--uttering no word,--now into the fifth week; have
had such a "retreat" as no La Trappe hardly could have offered
me. A "retreat" _without cilices,_ thistle-mattresses; and with
_silent_ devotions (if any) instead of blockhead spoken ones to
the Virgin and others! There is still an Excursion to the
Highlands ahead, which cannot be avoided;--then home again to
_peine forte et dure._ Good be with you always, dear friend.

--T. Carlyle




CLXI. Carlyle to Emerson

Chelsea, 2 December, 1856

Dear Emerson,--I am really grieved to have hurt the feelings of
Mr. Phillips;* a gentleman to whom I, on my side, had no
feelings but those of respect and good will! I pray you smooth
him down again, by all wise methods, into at least good-natured
indifference to me. He may depend upon it I could not mean to