At the end of much writing, I have little to tell you of myself.
I am a bad subject for autobiography. As I adjourn letters, so I
adjourn my best tasks.... My wife joins me in very kind regards
to Mrs. Carlyle. Use your old magnanimity to me, and punish my
stony ingratitudes by new letters from time to time.

Ever affectionately and gratefully yours,
R.W. Emerson




CLXXIV. Emerson to Carlyle

Concord, 16 May, 1866

My Dear Carlyle,--I have just been shown a private letter from
Moncure Conway to one of his friends here, giving some tidings of
your sad return to an empty home. We had the first news last
week. And so it is. The stroke long threatened has fallen at
last, in the mildest form to its victim, and relieved to you by
long and repeated reprieves. I must think her fortunate also in
this gentle departure, as she had been in her serene and honored
career. We would not for ourselves count covetously the
descending steps after we have passed the top of the mount, or
grudge to spare some of the days of decay. And you will have the
peace of knowing her safe, and no longer a victim. I have found
myself recalling an old verse which one utters to the parting
soul,--