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LETTERS. 167
mirably. The solitary life which she leads is delightful to
me. Here in this quietude, in a new neighborhood, sur-
rounded by new objects, there awaken within me many
dormant feelings, many interests that I knew nothing of.
Tam going through a spiritual “ mineral-water cure,” which
will strengthen me in body and mind; and they both
needed strengthening.
Norway’s history, ancient and modern, its literature, na-
ture, and relationship to Sweden, interests me greatly.
I inquire into, I think of, many things which never be-
fore gave me a thought or an interest. Plans for new
“Sketches” are in progress; thoughts stream forth, and I
feel that both the time and the place are important for my
development. The spring air which I breathe, being con-
tinually beside the Countess S , and the influence of
her heart, her character, and her temper, certainly does me
good ; but what is even niore to me than all this, is that I
am allowed to be so perfectly in peace. You cannot think
how delightful it is, my dear mother, to be so far away from
all acquaintances, to have no visits to pay and none to re-
ceive. This kind of unsociableness is a real disease, but
is at present unconquerable. My nervous system has been
weakened. I trust that in the course of time, living in re-
tirement, and with prudent care of my health, I may get
stronger, and get rid of that most painful feeling ; but until
then, it is so good for me not to have that feeling tried.
When I am alone in my quiet room, the blue sky peeping
in, and with my books and papers around me, then I think
the whole world is mine, especially if a dear letter lies be-
fore me, bringing good news from those who belong to me,
and telling me that they love me. Then my heart beats
gratefully to the Great Father of all, and full of hope to
be able to do some good for my fellow-creatures ; then I
am as happy as any one can be; then I love mankind best
and live best for them.
On Sunday the Countess had invited a small party to an
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