But many of its
advantages must be regarded at a long distance.
I have heard nothing from you for a long time,--so may your
writing prosper the more. I wish to hear, however, concerning
you, and your house, and your studies, when there is little to
tell. The steamers come so fast--to exchange cards would not be
nothing. My wife and children and my mother are well. Peace and
love to your household.
--R.W. Emerson
CIII. Emerson to Carlyle
Concord, 30 September, 1845
My Dear Friend,--I had hardly sent away my letter by the last
steamer, when yours full of good news arrived. I greet you
heartily on the achievement of your task, and the new days of
freedom obtained and deserved. Happiest, first, that you can
work, which seems the privilege of the great, and then, also,
that thereby you can come at the sweetness of victory and rest.
Yes, flee to the country, ride, run, leap, sit, spread yourself
at large; and in all ways celebrate the immense benevolence of
the Universe towards you; and never complain again of dyspepsia,
crosses, or the folly of men; for in giving you this potent
concentration, what has been withholden? I am glad with all men
that a new book is made, that the gentle creation as well as the
grosser goes ever on.
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