Correspondence

3380.  RB to Rachel Talfourd

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 20, 177.

Rome,

April 5. ’54.

My dear Lady Talfourd,

I hardly dare write to you, even a line or a word,—yet how can I help? You will understand how sad and indeed impossible it would be for me to leave the little unsaid which I, in common with all, have to say– How deeply this awful loss affects whoever knew your most admirable and beloved Husband! I shall never forget, never cease to be most proud of, most grateful for, his whole course of kindness to me. I could never repay it in the least degree,—and he was probably only the more disposed to bestow it. What a noble beginning, consummation and end of a man’s career, however—what a true poem in life and action! He has had his reward, even as the individuals, who could least have contributed to its completeness, would have desired. This, which the whole land must be repeating more energetically, though not more affectionately—you will bear to hear, dear Lady Talfourd,—you who have always been the true partner in his goodness and greatness,—from one whom your friendship has so long been a joy and distinction to.

May God bless and console you and your family.

Ever yours sincerely and gratefully,

Robert Browning.

My wife had long been privileged to call the Author of “Ion” a friend, when by association with me she became even more intimately aware of his fine and generous nature. She sympathizes in what I have written so imperfectly, and bids me assure you of her deepest feeling for yourself.

Address, on integral page: Lady Talfourd / Russell Square.

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library.

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