He is a very interesting man, remarkably simple in his manners, full of enthusiasm and eloquence in conversation, especially on the subject of his favourite art--poetry--which he seems to have studied in a very philosophical spirit, and about which he entertains some peculiar opinions.

Spenser, Shakspeare, and Milton are his favourites among the English poets, especially the latter, whom he almost idolises.

He expressed one opinion which rather surprised me, and in which I could not concur--that he preferred the 'Samson Agonistes' to 'Comus.' He recited in vindication of his judgment one very fine passage from the former poem, and in a very striking manner; his voice is deep and pathetic, and thrills with feeling.

He is Toryish--at least what would he considered so--in his political principles, though he disclaims all connection with party, and certainly argues with great fairness and temper on controverted topics, such as Parliamentary Reform and Catholic Emancipation.

We took a long walk with him the other evening, to the scene of one of his Pastorals in the neighbourhood of Grasmere.