I hardly ever stir out, and, unless I have company at home, my evenings are passed solus.

I read much, but good books are scarce, and I hate borrowing.

I like to read a book quickly, and afterwards revert to such passages as have made the deepest impression, and which appear to me most important to remember--a practice I cannot conveniently pursue unless the book be mine.

Should you find that I am likely to remain here, I wish you to send me some choice authors in history, particularly ancient, with maps, and the best translations of ancient works.

I read in my youth Pope's Translation of Homer, but till lately never discovered its exquisite beauties.