GE to Sara Sophia Hennell, London, 23 November 1864
Title
GE to Sara Sophia Hennell, London, 23 November 1864
Title
GE to Sara Sophia Hennell, London, 23 November 1864
Sender
George Eliot
Recipient
Sara Sophia Hennell
Date(s)
- 1864-11-23
Place
London
Letter Content
GE to Sara Sophia Hennell, London, 23 November 1864
MS: Yale. Mostly published: Cross, II, 391-392.
The Priory, | 21. North Bank, | Regents Park.
November 23. 64.
My dear Sara
I believe I have thought of you every day for the last fortnight, and I remembered the birthday -- and "everything." But I was a little cross because I had heard nothing of you since Mr. Bray's visit, nor even seen Miss Marshall so that I could inquire about you. And I said to myself "if she wanted to write she would write." I confess I was a little ashamed when I saw the outside of your letter ten minutes ago, feeling that I should read within it the proof that you were thoughtful and mindful as ever.
Yes, I do heartily give my greeting -- had given it already. And I desire very much that the work which is absorbing you may give you some happiness besides that which belongs to the activity of production. But do go to Lea Hurst, because you are always the better for change.
It is very kind of you to remember Charlie's date too. 293 He is as happy as the day is long -- and very good -- one of those creatures to whom goodness comes naturally. Not any exalted goodness, but everyday serviceable goodness such as wears through life. Whereas exalted goodness comes in brief inspirations and requires a man to die lest he should spoil his work.
Mr. Lewes is much better and is enjoying himself "in his skin" again, according to the German phrase.
I have been ill, but now am pretty well -- with much to occupy and interest me, and with no trouble except those bodily ailments.
I could chat a long while with you -- but I restrain myself, because
I must not carry on my letter writing into the "solid day." Best love to all.
Ever your faithful
Pollian.
MS: Yale. Mostly published: Cross, II, 391-392.
The Priory, | 21. North Bank, | Regents Park.
November 23. 64.
My dear Sara
I believe I have thought of you every day for the last fortnight, and I remembered the birthday -- and "everything." But I was a little cross because I had heard nothing of you since Mr. Bray's visit, nor even seen Miss Marshall so that I could inquire about you. And I said to myself "if she wanted to write she would write." I confess I was a little ashamed when I saw the outside of your letter ten minutes ago, feeling that I should read within it the proof that you were thoughtful and mindful as ever.
Yes, I do heartily give my greeting -- had given it already. And I desire very much that the work which is absorbing you may give you some happiness besides that which belongs to the activity of production. But do go to Lea Hurst, because you are always the better for change.
It is very kind of you to remember Charlie's date too. 293 He is as happy as the day is long -- and very good -- one of those creatures to whom goodness comes naturally. Not any exalted goodness, but everyday serviceable goodness such as wears through life. Whereas exalted goodness comes in brief inspirations and requires a man to die lest he should spoil his work.
Mr. Lewes is much better and is enjoying himself "in his skin" again, according to the German phrase.
I have been ill, but now am pretty well -- with much to occupy and interest me, and with no trouble except those bodily ailments.
I could chat a long while with you -- but I restrain myself, because
I must not carry on my letter writing into the "solid day." Best love to all.
Ever your faithful
Pollian.
Signature
Pollian.
Citation
George Eliot, GE to Sara Sophia Hennell, London, 23 November 1864, Complete George Eliot Letters(2026), George Eliot Archive, edited by Beverley Park Rilett. https://GeorgeEliotArchive.org, Accessed September 7, 2026. https://www.georgeeliotarchive.org/items/show/94035