In every other respect she seems perfectly contented with the course which affairs are taking; while we see how thoroughly unspoiled she is both in the warmth of the affection with which she speaks of her family and greets the little memorials of home which have been sent her; and still more in the continuance of her acts of charity, and in her design that her benevolence should be unknown.
"I hear that the queen[4] is expecting to be confined.

I hope her child will be a son.

When shall I be able to say the same of myself?
They tell me, too, that the grand duke[5] and his wife are going into Spain.

I greatly wish that they would conceive a dread of the sea-voyage, and take this place in their way.

The journey would be a little longer; but they would be well received here, for my brother is very highly thought of; and, besides, I am somewhat jealous at being the only one of my family unacquainted with my sister-in-law.
"The pictures of my little brothers which you have sent me have given me great pleasure.