now explained my notions as to the place where she now is—­it is the best I could find for the present; but I have no prejudices in its favour.

     “I do not speak of politics, because it seems a hopeless subject,
     as long as those scoundrels are to be permitted to bully states
     out of their independence.  Believe me,

     “Yours ever and truly.

     “P.S.  There is a report here of a change in France; but with what
     truth is not yet known.

“P.S.  My respects to Mrs. H. I have the ‘best opinion’ of her countrywomen; and at my time of life, (three and thirty, 22d January, 1821,) that is to say, after the life I have led, a good opinion is the only rational one which a man should entertain of the whole sex—­up to thirty, the worst possible opinion a man can have of them in general, the better for himself.  Afterwards, it is a matter of no importance to them, nor to him either, what opinion he entertains—­his day is over, or, at least, should be.

     “You see how sober I am become.”

[Footnote 34:  With such anxiety did he look to this essential part of his daughter’s education, that notwithstanding the many advantages she was sure to derive from the kind and feminine superintendence of Mrs. Shelley, his apprehensions, lest her feeling upon religious subjects might be disturbed by the conversation of Shelley himself, prevented him from allowing her to remain under his friend’s roof.]

* * * * *

LETTER 418.  TO MR. MURRAY.

     “Ravenna, April 21. 1821.

“I enclose you another letter on Bowles.  But I premise that it is not like the former, and that I am not at all sure how much, if any, of it should be published.  Upon this point you can consult with Mr. Gifford, and think twice before you publish it at all.

     Yours truly,

     B.

“P.S.  You may make my subscription for Mr. Scott’s widow, &c. thirty instead of the proposed ten pounds; but do not put down my name; put down N.N. only.  The reason is, that, as I have mentioned him in the enclosed pamphlet, it would look indelicate.  I would give more, but my disappointments last year about Rochdale and the transfer from the funds render me more economical for the present.”

* * * * *

LETTER 419.  TO MR. SHELLEY.

     “Ravenna, April 26. 1821.

“The child continues doing well, and the accounts are regular and favourable.  It is gratifying to me that you and Mrs. Shelley do not disapprove of the step which I have taken, which is merely temporary.

“I am very sorry to hear what you say of Keats—­is it actually true?