Talking of American literature, with the publishers on the back of it, we think of offering the proofs of our new works to any publisher over the water who will pay us properly for the advantage of bringing out a volume in America simultaneously with the publication in England.

We have heard that such a proposal will be acceptable, and mean to try it.

The words you sent to me from Mr.Ruskin gave me great pleasure indeed, as how should they not from such a man?
I like him personally, too, besides my admiration for him as a writer, and I was deeply gratified in every way to have his approbation.

His 'Seven Lamps' I have not read yet.

Books come out slowly to Italy.