I am full of expectation, but will say no more.
Dearest Isa, have I been long in writing indeed?
You see, I let so many letters accumulate which I hadn't the heart to reply to, that, on taking up the account, I had over much to do in writing letters.

Then I have been working a little at some Italian lyrics.

Three more are gone lately to the 'Independent,' and another is ready to go.

All this, with helping Pen to prepare for the Abbe, has filled my hands, and they are soon tired, my Isa, nowadays.

When the sun goes down, I am down.