5291. RB to Anne Gilchrist

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 30, 304–305.

19. Warwick Crescent,

Upper Westbourne Terrace,

Nov. 3. ’63.

My dear Madam,

I can only say, I feel deeply grateful to you for the Book [1] I received a few days ago: nor shall I trust myself to speak of what your letter communicates. You must understand how what would under any circumstances have deeply impressed me, makes itself felt in these days of my life painfully indeed.

I should like, however, to mention just this—that I always much wished to know your Husband, after reading his Life of Etty, [2] —and that when it struck me, some years ago, that it probably was he whom I met one evening at Carlyle’s and failed to recognise—(I can’t imagine why)—I was really vexed—much with my own stupidity and a little with the Carlyles’ failing to help it—and could but determine to remedy this on my return to England. I saw therefore the announced Life of Blake with an interest rendering my purpose the stronger: finally came the sad news that this was never to be [3] —here, at least.

Still, the few words are remembered, and the kind thoughts, with which you acquaint me, shall be treasured up also. This Book, full of sympathy and appreciation, will be a remaining delight, and be followed by nothing but good. This is a great comfort.

Let me thank you once more for your own goodness and beg you to believe me.

Gratefully and faithfully yours

Robert Browning.

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Eton College Library, Michael Meredith Collection.

1. Life of William Blake; see letter 5249.

2. Life of William Etty (1855); see letter 3515.

3. Alexander Gilchrist died on 30 November 1861.

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