3358. RB to William Wetmore Story
As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 20, 139–140.
Rome,
Saty March 18. [1854] [1]
My dear Story.
I have just succeeded in seeing P[antaleoni]: but so late in the day as to leave no time for any thing but transcribing his letter [2] —for I think it wiser to send a duplicate to Albano—fearing the neglect of the Postmasters. What can one say to you? You know how entirely we feel for you! P. lays great emphasis on his assurance that the quinine never produces the ague, but keeps it off as well as the fever—and says that had the remedies been duly taken Edie might have staid at Rome—removal being only advisable because she did not take them. You have done all for the best, I am sure. I have no time for more—you understand. P. was out when I called first, and I was forced to see him before writing.
Ba’s most affectionate love with mine to you both,—dear friend,
Ever affectionately yours
RB.
Pray write—we shall be so anxious.
Address, on integral page: All’Illussmo Sige / Signor Story, / Alla Locanda “La Posta” / Velletri.
Publication: BAF, p. 24.
Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library.
1. Year provided by postmark.
2. Pantaleoni’s letter to Story, on an integral page with RB’s, is as follows: “The attack of the liver jaundice etc has always been the consequence of the ague, and one form of it in the last three attacks that poor Edith had– Quinine or any other means, it could be resorted to to stop the ague, it was the best cure for the jaundice also and hepatic colic– I apprehended a return of ague the Monday last when I saw the Child, and I am quite sure that she has not taken quinine as I ordered– Nor ague nor jaundice or hepatic colic would then have followed—as it is impossible to go on for ever with quinine the Child ought to be moved in a country where are no miasmas or agues to apprehend. She ought to have started three days before and travel quickly as I proposed. Now I’ld take her as soon as possible posting to Naples or go to Civitavecchia and Genoa, but lose no time– / D Pantaleoni.”
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