I have received instructions from Governor Marcy on the Central American questions, which render it almost morally certain that from their nature they cannot be executed before the 30th of September; with declarations that I am the most proper person, etc., etc., etc., to carry them into effect, and not a word about my successor. Indeed, Mr. Hunter, the chief clerk, writes me as follows, under date of August 6th: “I hear nothing as to who is to be your successor. It is no doubt a difficult question to decide.” August 23, 1855. I know nothing at present which will prevent me from accompanying Mr. Appleton to the Isle of Wight. Why should I not occasionally take “a spree” as well as Mr. Shapter? You may, therefore, secure me a room in the hotel, should this be deemed necessary. I shall be there some time on Saturday. Till then, farewell! August 28, 1855. I opened a letter for you from Glasgow. It is dated on the 24th, and announces the sending of the two shawls—“grey centre, with black and scarlet border.” They have not yet been received, neither had those I returned been received. There was no letter for you by the “Asia.” I send the three last _Heralds_. Poor Mr. Lawrence had been given up.[22] There were no longer any hopes of his recovery. Col. L. is still in Paris. His brother and lady are, I understand, in London, and will leave for home by the “Arago,” from Southampton, to-morrow. I had not a word from Washington, official or unofficial—nothing about poor Jessie. We had a very pleasant time on our return from Black Gang Chine, and indeed throughout our excursion. The Shanklin Chine is much more picturesque than the Black Gang affair. No news. Footnote 22: The Honorable Abbot Lawrence, of Boston. Miss Lane returned to the United States shortly before the date of this letter. LONDON, October 12, 1855. MY DEAR HARRIET:— I have been watching the weather since you departed, and it has been as favorable as I could have desired. If the winds and the waves have been as propitious as my wishes and my hopes induce me to believe, you will have had a delightful voyage. Good luck to you on your native soil! I miss you greatly; but know it was for your good that you should go home in this delightful weather, instead of encountering a winter passage. Every person I meet has something kind to say of you. You have left a good name behind, and that is something, but not more than you deserve. Poor Lady Ouseley has lost her son. I have not seen her since this sad event, but of course have called. I have met Lady Chantrey, Mrs. Shapter, the D’Oxholmes, etc., etc., but need not repeat what they said.