2588. RB to EBB

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 13, 346–347.

[London]

Monday Mg [Postmark: 7 September 1846]

I had the greatest mind, when your letter came—(the most welcome of all letters—so much more than I could expect!)—to get up at once and be well in your dearest eyes or thro’ them—but I checked myself and thought that I ought to be contented with one such a letter thro’ whole long weeks of annoyance, instead of one day more.

I am delighted to know Flush is with you, if I am not. Did you remember my petition about him? But, dearest, it was very imprudent to go to those disgusting wretches yourself—they have had a pretty honor without knowing it!

Here I lie with a dizzy head—unable to read more than a page or two .. there is something in the unwonted position that tires me—but whenever the book is left off, I turn to the dark side of the room and see you, my very own Ba,—and so I am soon better and able to try again.

How hot, and thunder-like, this oppressive air! And you who are affected by such weather? Tell me, my dearest dearest, all you can tell me—since the real lips and eyes are away–

Bless you, my beloved– Remember, I count upon seeing you on Wednesday at farthest–

Your own RB

Address: Miss Barrett, / 50. Wimpole Street.

Postmark: 8NT8 SP7 1846 A.

Publication: RB-EBB, p. 1054.

Manuscript: Wellesley College.

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