Plunged in the deepest gloom, I write these few words to let you know that, just now, when the bell was striking ten, I drank to [Illustration: H. E. R.!] and to all the rest of Rockingham; as the wine went down my throat, I felt distinctly that it was "changing those thoughts to madness." On the way here I was a terror to my companions, and I am at present a blight and mildew on my home. Think of me sometimes, as I shall long think of our glorious dance last night. Give my most affectionate regards to Watson, and my kind remembrances to all who remember me, and believe me, Ever faithfully yours. P.S.--I am in such an incapable state, that after executing the foregoing usual flourish I swooned, and remained for some time insensible. Ha, ha, ha! Why was I ever restored to consciousness!!! P.P.S.--"Changing" those thoughts ought to be "driving." But my recollection is incoherent and my mind wanders. [Sidenote: M. Cerjat.] DEVONSHIRE TERRACE, _Saturday, Dec. 29th, 1849._ MY DEAR CERJAT, I received your letter at breakfast-time this morning with a pleasure my eloquence is unable to express and your modesty unable to conceive. It is so delightful to be remembered at this time of the year in your house where we have been so happy, and in dear old Lausanne, that we always hope to see again, that I can't help pushing away the first page of "Copperfield" No. 10, now staring at me with what I may literally call a blank aspect, and plunging energetically into this reply. What a strange coincidence that is about Blunderstone House! Of all the odd things I have ever heard (and their name is Legion), I think it is the oddest. I went down into that part of the country on the 7th of January last year, when I was meditating the story, and chose Blunderstone for the sound of its name. I had previously observed much of what you say about the poor girls. In all you suggest with so much feeling about their return to virtue being cruelly cut off, I concur with a sore heart. I have been turning it over in my mind for some time, and hope, in the history of Little Em'ly (who _must_ fall--there is no hope for her), to put it before the thoughts of people in a new and pathetic way, and perhaps to do some good. You will be glad to hear, I know, that "Copperfield" is a great success. I think it is better liked than any of my other books.