[Boston—Monday, 28 January 1867]
Monday. Charming visit from Mr Howells who is busy over his literary work continually building up a lovely structure in fine mosaic out of his mind. He is so modest & simple too that one can’t help being deeply attracted by him.
Lissie Winthrop dropped down to pass the better part of the day, just as Mr Howells departed. Went out with her & did not return until nearly dinner. Found poor Lissie at her studio in a shivering excitement over a morning of unsuccessful labor. Soothed her as I best could & took her to walk.
In the evening Mr & Mrs J.P. Quincy came & passed two hours very pleasantly, for we like them much.