[2 July 1846]. Browning, Elizabeth Barrett to Browning, Robert.

              Thursday evening.

But, ever dearest, I do so fear that I shall not be able to get to Mrs Jameson’s tomorrow at all! not at twelve, I fear, I fear. Our visitors are to arrive late tonight, too late for me to see them: &, for me to go away at twelve in the morning, just about the hour when they might reasonably expect to have & to hold me, .. seems altogether unlawful, according to my sisters. Yet the temptation is strong. Would half past twelve be too early for you, if I could manage to go at twelve? Ah-but I shall not be able, I do fear. Just see how it becomes possible & impossible at once for us to touch hands! I could almost wring mine, to see! For I could dare the spectacles, the hypothetical spectacles, or the eyes discerning without them: she has no idea to begin with-& you would not say “Ba! let us order the mules,” I suppose. If I went, it would