We have had great festivals here by reason of the Emperor's marriage; I did not move a step to see the pageantry; moreover, it is difficult to find anything fresh in it which would afford me enjoyment; I have seen illuminations and fireworks, the only attractive thing there was must have been the King of Prussia; but as I do not know that good man, I have not very great interest in him either; nor, so I am told, did he ask for me, and he went away without troubling himself in the slightest about me; it was a good thing that I did not bother him.
J.P.

H.
ST.

PETERSBURG, _26th April/8th May 1858._ DEAR FRIEND,--I thank you for your friendly letter of the 12th April, and also for the invitation to visit you.

I am thinking of leaving Russia soon, perhaps permanently, for twenty-seven years are enough of this climate.

It is as yet undecided when I leave, for it depends on business matters which must be settled, but I hope it will be soon.