am so hard at work that perhaps I should not have written to you for a day or two if George's Letter had not diverted my attention to the interests and pleasure of those I love--and ever believe that when I do not behave punctually it is from a very necessary occupation, and that my silence is no proof of my not thinking of you, or that I want more than a gentle fillip to bring your image with every claim before me. You have never seen mountains, or I might tell you that the hill at Steephill is I think almost of as much consequence as Mount Rydal on Lake Winander. Bonchurch too is a very delightful Place--as I can see by the Cottages, all romantic--covered with creepers and honeysuckles, with roses and eglantines peeping in at the windows. Fit abodes for the People I guess live in them, romantic old maids fond of novels, or soldiers' widows with a pretty jointure--or any body's widows or aunts or anythings given to Poetry and a Piano-forte--as far as in 'em lies--as people say. If I could play upon the Guitar I might make my fortune with an old song--and get two blessings at once--a Lady's heart and the Rheumatism. But I am almost afraid to peep at those little windows--for a pretty window should show a pretty face, and as the world goes chances are against me. I am living with a very good fellow indeed, a Mr. Rice.--He is unfortunately labouring under a complaint which has for some years been a burthen to him. This is a pain to me. He has a greater tact in speaking to people of the village than I have, and in those matters is a great amusement as well as good friend to me. He bought a ham the other day for says he "Keats, I don't think a Ham is a wrong thing to have in a house." Write to me, Shanklin, Isle of Wight, as soon as you can; for a Letter is a great treat to me here--believing me ever, Your affectionate Brother JOHN ----. CVIII.--TO JOHN HAMILTON REYNOLDS. _Extract from a letter dated_ Shanklin, n{r} Ryde, Isle of Wight, Sunday, 12th [for 11th] July, 1819. * * * * *