I saw no use in the past: only a scene Of degradation, ugliness, and tears; The record of disgraces best forgotten; - Robert Browning

Forgive me. I am shy by nature: — & by position & experience, . . . by having had my nerves shaken to excess, & by leading a life of such seclusion, . . . by these things together & by others besides, I have appeared shy & ungrateful to you. Only not mistrustful.You could not mean to judge me so. Mistrustful people do not write as I write, . . . surely!

But to have seen thee, and to die so soon!

The year's at the spring
And day's at the morn;
Morning's at seven;
The hill-side's dew-pearled;
The lark's on the wing;
The snail's on the thorn;
God's in His heaven — All's right with the world!