I say our _altered_ plans, for you know our intention was to have embarked next March for Rio Janeiro, and there to have spent two or three months, after which to have taken passage in the Brazilian packet for England, which would have probably detained us till October, and have rendered a visit to Hanover that season impracticable. But by striking off this Brazilian trip, and taking our course directly homewards, so much time will be saved, and all the rest of our domestic arrangements become so much simplified that it seems like finding a treasure, as a fund of time will thereby be placed at our disposal, the first fruits of which, as in all love and duty bound, we have determined to devote to you; or rather, I should say, that, when in talking over with Margaret all the _pro’s_ and _con’s_ of the question, whether to return home direct, or _viâ_ Brazil?—_this_ consideration at once decided it in favour of the direct course, her desire to see you outweighing every consideration of amusement or temporary gratification which a visit to Rio could offer. So now be sure, dear aunty, and keep yourself well, and let us find you in your best looks and spirits; and, although what you say respecting our good Mrs. Beckedorff’s health is somewhat deplorable, yet I will indulge the hope that she too will perform a part in the _dramatis personæ_ of that happy meeting. Meanwhile, as the time of our departure hence approaches, we shall take care and apprise you of all our movements, respecting which it is impossible at present to speak more precisely. FROM H.R.H. THE DUKE OF CAMBRIDGE. CAMBRIDGE HOUSE, _May 18, 1838_. MY DEAR MADAM,— Having just been informed by the newspapers that your nephew is safely landed in this country, I hasten to write you a few lines by this night’s mail to congratulate you most sincerely on this event, which I know will give you pleasure. I am unable to send you any further details about him or his family, as I am not aware if he is arrived as yet in town, and should this not be the case, my letter will perhaps be the first to give you this welcome news, which I shall certainly be delighted at. I trust you continue enjoying your health; and with best wishes, &c., &c., Yours most sincerely, ADOLPHUS. [Sidenote: 1838. _Return of Sir John Herschel._] SIR JOHN HERSCHEL TO MISS HERSCHEL. LONDON, _May 20, 1838_.