4987. RB to Elizabeth Missing Sewell

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 29, 254.

1. Chichester Road,

Upper Westbourne Terrace.

Nov. 8. ’61.

Dear Miss Sewell, [1]

I have complete faith in you & know that whatever you wish will be for the best: write what you like. [2] I say this, of course, under the circumstances,—because so much has been written, that there is no longer a question whether complete silence should be observed or not,—only, whether when broken, it should be with good or harmful effect: & we shall take no harm from you.

Perhaps you may have seen some of the biographical notices, or biographical traits pointing literary notices which have appeared from time to time in the newspapers: I may mention, in that case, that they are for the most part mere myths or mistakes—not that it matters much,—except for truth’s sake, to be sure.

I shall always remember you & your visit,—the one I was present at: I believe I said so to Mrs Cleveland. [3] If ever you come to Town & care to see me, you will write a word & I will call wherever you may be.

I am ever

Yours faithfully & gratefully

Robert Browning–

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Armstrong Browning Library.

1. Elizabeth Missing Sewell (1815–1906); see letter 2718, note 17.

2. Miss Sewell was evidently at work on her Impressions of Rome, Florence, and Turin, published by Longman in May 1862, in which she recounts a visit made to the Brownings in early April 1861 (see letter 4868, note 10).

3. Sarah Paine Cleveland (née Perkins, 1818–93).

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