The crisis has come earlier than anyone expected.

It is a crisis; and if the north accepts such a compromise as has been proposed the nation perishes morally, which would be sadder than the mere dissolution of States, however sad.

It is the difference between the death of the soul and of the body.
There might and ought to be a pecuniary compromise; but a compromise of principle would be fatal.
I am anxious that before we go too far with the Minghetti project here (separate administration of provinces) we should learn from America that a certain degree of centralisation (not carried out too far) is necessary to a strong and vital government.

And Italy will want a strong government for some years to come.

There is much talk of war in the spring, and if Austria will not cede Venetia war must be, even if she should satisfy her other provinces, which she will probably fail to do.
This is a dull lecture, but you will pardon it and me.
I know all your goodness and sympathy.