Her health became much shaken.
"Brussels, August 1st, 1843.
"If I complain in this letter, have mercy and don't blame me, for, I forewarn you, I am in low spirits, and that earth and heaven are dreary and empty to me at this moment.

In a few days our vacation will begin; everybody is joyous and animated at the prospect, because everybody is to go home.

I know that I am to stay here during the five weeks that the holidays last, and that I shall be much alone during that time, and consequently get downcast, and find both days and nights of a weary length.

It is the first time in my life that I have really dreaded the vacation.

Alas! I can hardly write, I have such a dreary weight at my heart; and I do so wish to go home.