not as good for the State or the immigrants as I drew it. Still, the papers proclaim it to be the most important act of the Empire. See then how much more desirable and honourable my position here, than it would have been in Russia or in France! Here I am in the category of a benefactor; there I should have been almost a pensioner of charity. If I can find here a home for my people, assist to build up a good and stable Government—of which there are reasonable grounds of hope—and surround myself by my family and friends, surely goodness and mercy will have guided me all my days, and my cup will be run over. Now, compare this prospect with the plan that Rutson, in his good heart and clear head, had chalked out for me. He urged my stay in England, and that I must wait till I would be allowed to return to the United States. In four years, perhaps, I could return with diminished health and energy. I can go back just as well from here as from England if I should find it desirable so to do. It is true, all my friends—save Dick and doubting little Nannie—have been of one mind against me. Events seem now to bid fair to vindicate the propriety of my course. Now will you not let me bring my Molly back with me? She can return to you with me when I make my next visit; and then my Eliza, if she will be diligent at school, will take her place; and then the next time you and my little Loo will come. . . .
I want to arrange it so that Dick can take my place here while I am gone. . . .
I am so afraid that noble spirit of firmness and of resolution, which has borne you, up so manfully since we parted, will give way under trial after trial to which I am subjecting it. But then you know how children must be educated, and there are no schools to speak of here.
Of course you will seek and take Tremlett's advice whenever you are at a loss for a counsellor. Suppose I can't get off in French steamer of 14th November, what shall I do? Come in December and return in March, or come in April and return in September? I want to take my Lucy to the pantomime! Love to all friends, and kisses to the children. God bless you my love! M. F. Maury.
