This inability to meet claims to which she would so gladly have given full space was a very wearing part of the overcrowding of her life. Here is a regret that she was compelled to seem to neglect a friend for whom she would have done anything in her power:— “Her letter pains me, in a sense, because I know how heavy is the trial of waiting and doing nothing when there is the will to work. If only I had some leisure I might go to her and _talk_ with her. “But I can give nothing except to those who can come to me, and not always, or even often, then. Do not say anything. As the work goes on, we may see a way to keep her interested in, and cognizant of, our part of it. “I had no idea of how much she had cared for me in the past days, and it is very touching to know it.” “March, 1873. “... I hope you have not been thinking harshly of me for not answering your note or calling, but if you have, you must in imagination take my place, which is at all times fit to be occupied by ten ordinary women, but which, at the end of the _school year_, with all the examinations and prizes, is large enough for twenty.” “December 9, 1873. “I am going to bed now (eight o’clock), and hope to be better for a night’s rest. “Here I am again a prisoner in my room! A sore throat is the main cause.... “But I am generally out of sorts. I am learning that I cannot do as I used, and that body will dominate mind and will. “I fear you are no better. You had my news? It seems to me quite foolish for me to be ill and unable to do my work when the path became suddenly clear, and all so quiet too!... “Dearest Annie, my love to you. Lately I have often seemed to want you, but I have never been so long and so completely broken down—except there was organic disease, when I had fever—as I have this term, and therefore unable to go to you. “There is a lecture at the College of Preceptors to-morrow night, on ‘English as a Means of Philological Instruction,’ by Dr. Morris—the Morris. 7.30. Could you go? If so, could you join me here a few minutes before seven? Only Miss Fawcett is going. “I am better in myself, but cannot yet stand upright or walk about. Patience is teaching me a great lesson, and I hope I am learning it, in part, at least. “... I really think there have never been so many petty worries crowded together. “It is all very well for men to say ‘never mind.’ However, what is to be will be, and strength comes with the need. “I am much better in health. Why, do you think? I went on Saturday to my uncle’s perfectly quiet house, and out of the 48 hours slept 25!—2½ hours each afternoon, and 10 hours each night.