Mr. Chorley’s review is objectionable to me because unjust.  A reviewer should read the book he gives judgment on, and he could not have read from beginning to end the particular poem in question, and have expounded its significance so.  I wrote a letter on the subject to the ‘Athenaeum’ to correct this mis-statement, which I cared for chiefly on Robert’s account.

In fact, I cursed neither England nor America.  I leave such things to our Holy Father here; the poem only pointed out how the curse was involved in the action of slave-holding.

I never saw Robert so enraged about a criticism.  He is better now, let me add.

In the matter of Savoy,[80] it has vexed and vexes me, I do confess to you.  It’s a handle given to various kinds of dirty hands, it spoils the beauty and glory of much, the uncontested admiration of which would have done good to the world.  At the same time, as long as Piedmont and Savoy agree in the annexation to France, there is nothing to object to—­not to object to with a reasonable mind.  And it seems to be understood (it is stated in fact), that the cession is under condition of the assent of the populations.  The Vote is necessary to the honour of France.  I do not doubt that it will be consulted.  Meantime there is too much haste, I think.  There is a haste somewhat indelicate in the introduction of French garrisons into Savoy, previous to the popular conclusion being known.  There should have been mixed garrisons, French and Piedmontese, till the vote was taken.  Napoleon should have been more particular in Savoy than he was even in central Italy, as to the advance of any occasion of the current charge of ‘pressure.’

Altogether the subject is an anxious one—­would be, even if less rancorous violence on the part of his enemies were wreaked upon it.  The English Tories are using it with the frenzy of despair, and no wonder!

Lamoriciere’s arrival is another proof of the internal coalition against the Empire.

Now I must end, Robert says, or I shall lose the post.  My true best love, and Robert’s—­and Peni’s.

Write to me, do, dearest Isa, and tell me if the MSS. sent were nuisibles.  The Excommunication just out is said to include the Emperor.

Your ever loving
BA.

* * * * *

To Miss Browning

[Rome:  about March 1860.]

Dearest Sarianna,—­It is impossible to have a regret for dear Lady Elgin.  She has been imprisoned here under double chains too long.  To be out of the dark and the restraint is a blessing to that spirit, and must be felt so by all who love her.  Of course I shall write to Lady Augusta Bruce....

No, I don’t think there is much to be forgiven by my countrymen in my book.  What I reproach them for, none of them deny.  They certainly took no part in the war, nor will they if there is more war, and certainly the existence of the rifle clubs is a fact.