The references in the first paragraph are to the volume _Familiar
Studies of Men and Books_.
_Chalet am Stein, Davos, April 1, 1882._
MY DEAR DR. JAPP,--A good day to date this letter, which is in fact a
confession of incapacity. During my wife's illness I somewhat lost my
head, and entirely lost a great quire of corrected proofs. This is one
of the results; I hope there are none more serious. I was never so sick
of any volume as I was of that; I was continually receiving fresh proofs
with fresh infinitesimal difficulties. I was ill--I did really fear my
wife was worse than ill. Well, it's out now; and though I have observed
several carelessnesses myself, and now here's another of your
finding--of which, indeed, I ought to be ashamed--it will only justify
the sweeping humility of the Preface.
Symonds was actually dining with us when your letter came, and I
communicated your remarks.... He is a far better and more interesting
thing than any of his books.
The Elephant was my wife's; so she is proportionately elate you should
have picked it out for praise--from a collection, let me add, so replete
with the highest qualities of art.
My wicked carcase, as John Knox calls it, holds together wonderfully. In
addition to many other things, and a volume of travel, I find I have
written, since December, 90 Cornhill pages of magazine work--essays and
stories: 40,000 words, and I am none the worse--I am the better. I begin
to hope I may, if not outlive this wolverine upon my shoulders, at least
carry him bravely like Symonds and Alexander Pope. I begin to take a
pride in that hope.
I shall be much interested to see your criticisms; you might perhaps
send them to me. I believe you know that is not dangerous; one folly I
have not--I am not touchy under criticism.
Lloyd and my wife both beg to be remembered; and Lloyd sends as a
present a work of his own. I hope you feel flattered; for this is
_simply the first time he has ever given one away_. I have to buy my own
works, I can tell you.--Yours very sincerely,