SD2518. Robert Bulwer Lytton to John Forster
Published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 29, 313–314 (in part).
Ischl
21 Sep. 1861
My dearest Forster
Yr last letter was, indeed, a delightful surprise for wh you must not think me ungrateful because I have not sooner answered it. 1st I was particularly anxious to send you with no further delay the Review on Browning, … You will greatly serve & oblige me if you will at your leisure, not only look it over, but add or omit ad libitum, altering, as you may see fit. It has been finished in some hurry. But, in any case, contains I think the material of a good paper on B. I have heard that H Reeve of the Edinbro’ is no admirer of B. & obstinate. If this be true—there might be difficulties in that Quarter—otherwise it is the Quarterly I shd prefer. Failing others, the Westminster might perhaps be open to us. But you will know best what to do—what can be done you will I am sure do for B’s sake—my sole object is to obtain him a fair hearing & be of use to him. Therefore if you think any alteration necessary to secure this object pray make it,—only I wd suggest that if ought of eulogy be omitted, somewhat of dispraise shd in that case be softened down so as to keep the balance at the poise I put it.
I have had an unexpressably kind & touching letter from Browning—full of affectionate reference to you. I count with vehemence on our all meeting in Engd next year, and being also all together at Vienna afterwards—since I have now both his promise & yours to that effect, & shall hold you both to it. …
Think of me, & do what you can (but this I know you will) to help me in this matter abt our dear friend Browning. …
Publication: None traced.
Manuscript: Lord Cobbold.
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