As I have entered into particulars as to the character of S.’s writings, and they are so various, I thought his historic works ought by no means to be omitted, and therefore, though unwilling to lengthen the Epitaph, I added the two following-- … Labours of his own, Whether he traced historic truth with zeal For the State’s guidance, or the Church’s weal, Or Fancy, disciplined by studious Art, Informed his pen, or wisdom of the heart, Or judgments sanctioned in the Patriot’s mind By reverence for the rights of all mankind. I do not feel with you in respect to the word “so”; it refers, of course, to the preceding line, and as the reference is to fireside feelings and intimate friends, there appears to me a propriety in an expression inclining to the colloquial. The couplet was the dictate of my own feelings, and the construction is accordingly broken and rather dramatic,--but too much of this. If you have any objection to the couplet as altered, be so kind as let me know; if not, on no account trouble yourself to answer this letter. _Prematurely_ I object to as you do. I used the word with reference to that decay of faculties which is not uncommon in advanced life, and which often leads to dotage,--but the word must not be retained. We regret much to hear that Lady Coleridge is unwell, pray present to her our best wishes. What could induce the Bishop of London to forbid the choral service at St. Mark’s? It was in execution, I understand, above all praise. Ever most faithfully yours, W. WORDSWORTH. * * * * * _December 2nd, ’43._ MY DEAR MR. JUSTICE COLERIDGE, The first line would certainly have more spirit by reading “your” as you suggest. I had previously considered _that_; but decided in favour of “the,” as “your,” I thought, would clog the sentence in sound, there being “ye” thrice repeated, and followed by “_you_” at the close of the 4th line. I also thought that “_your_” would interfere with the application of “you” at the end of the fourth line, to the _whole_ of the particular previous images as I intended it to do. But I don’t trouble you with this Letter on that account, but merely to ask you whether the couplet now standing:-- Large were his aims, yet in no human breast Could private feelings find a holier nest, would not be better thus Could private feelings meet in holier rest.