4397. EBB to Sophia Eckley

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 26, 137.

[Rome]

[early May 1859] [1]

Dearest Sophie,

Here is the parcel—rather grown, as you will observe & I will explain how– Meanwhile, will you decide for me .. whether it is better to send by the courier, or to use Mr Bracken’s kindness? If the latter goes straight to England I lean to him of course– And he may escape the custom house with more dexterity.

One glance & ‘breath’ of you this evening! Till tomorrow & ever

beyond your loving Ba.

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Berg Collection.

1. Dated by EBB’s implication that William Bracken is leaving Rome in the near future. As indicated in letter 4405, he and Annette Bracken left for England via Florence on 12 May.

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