You judge rightly in writing to me in English, which I pray you to continue in your pleasing correspondence, which, besides being agreeable in other respects, serves me as a powerful stimulus to make more rapid progress in a language so useful in every point of view.
I shall write to you in Italian, because it is more easy for
me. The wise counsels which you give me in your letter cannot be dictated by
greater prudence than knowledge of the disease to which our noble Lord Byron is subject. They almost coincide with
those which I have suggested to him, and which he puts in practice. I
| 362 | APPENDIX |
With respect to the removal of the first, my lord shews himself most docile, but his temperament and his mind,—which rests not even during sleep,—prevent him from banishing the moral causes, to diminish which, there remains no other means than to induce him to use much exercise on horseback, or at sea; this at present cannot be done, in consequence of the nature of the streets, and the bad weather.
My lord principally, and all of us in his house, are fully converted to Methodism*, and you can count in
* The above sentence may appear to partake somewhat of mystification: but foreigners attach no ludicrous associations with the term Methodism; they are prepared to view it in its strict and legitimate sense: of this I could adduce examples. The Marchesa d’E., speaking of the sect, for it is applied to all serious persons, expressed a fear lest the Metodisti should introduce strange observances. “Who are they?” I asked. “In verità, I do not know,” she answered; “but the English call so and so (naming the persons) Metodisti, though I see nothing in them, but that they are more benevolent and devout than the rest.” Thus whatever stigma is attached to the name is affixed by the English themselves. Though oddly expressed, I am certain Dr. Bruno writes in all seriousness. |
| APPENDIX | 363 |
Here we labour strenuously for the advancement of the Greek cause; and we also make every effort to prepare their minds, that the principles to which you have converted us may be extended, and prosper with rapidity. Endeavour to maintain yourself in good health. Preserve your attachment to me, favour me with presenting my most respectful compliments to your amiable consort, and believe me to be
