But this place oppresses me, and I have a plan of going abroad a good deal.

I used to go with a relative, but that arrangement has dropped through." Regarding Grace with a final glance of criticism, she seemed to make up her mind to consider the young girl satisfactory, and continued: "Now I am often impelled to record my impressions of times and places.

I have often thought of writing a 'New Sentimental Journey.' But I cannot find energy enough to do it alone.

When I am at different places in the south of Europe I feel a crowd of ideas and fancies thronging upon me continually, but to unfold writing-materials, take up a cold steel pen, and put these impressions down systematically on cold, smooth paper--that I cannot do.

So I have thought that if I always could have somebody at my elbow with whom I am in sympathy, I might dictate any ideas that come into my head.