To Thomas Archer Hirst   2nd June 1856

2^nd June 1856

My dear Tom

I have just received your letter,¹ and were it not that sorrow is like magnetism which communicates itself without loss your sorrow would be already half borne. I wish I could transfer a portion of it from you to myself,– I wish I could gather that cloud which you think overhangs your future before my own vision and so relieve you of at least a portion of it. And yet this may be, and I would hope & trust probably is, the very darkest phase of things. Before taking any decided step I would have additional medical advice. I am strongly inclined to believe that the Isle of Wight would be as good for an invalid as Italy – but take my word for nothing if unsupported by suitable medical testimony. I saw Bevington yesterday & he thinks the same. He has a sisterinlaw² who has been far worse than Anna, one of whose lungs is indeed entirely gone, and she is now in good health. I will do as you say – take up my quarters at Vine Cottage,³ I will come to you the moment I can get away from London and will talk over all. With regard to going to Queenwood I have a mortal dread of it in my present state of health. Believe me I need rest – deep rest – and I know not how this would be attainable at Queenwood. Besides there are many other grave demands upon me here. But I will think of all and talk over all when we meet. God bless you & support you Tom

Your affectionate | John

RI MS JT/1/T/623