Lafcadio Hearn.
TO ELIZABETH BISLAND
New York, 1887.
Dear Miss Bisland,—Thanks for the gracious little letter. I wish I could see you, and see other friends; but fate forbids. Distances are too enormous; engagements imperative; preparations for coming journey made my head whirl. For I return to the tropics, dear Miss Bisland,—probably forever: I imagine that civilization will behold me no more, except as a visitor at very long intervals. I would like to write you sometimes, praying only that my letters be not ever shown unto newspaper people. You will hear from me soon again. I am off on Friday afternoon, and have not even the necessary time to do what I ought to do in the mere matter of exceedingly small purchases, outfits, etc.
Good-bye, with best regards and something a little more, too.
Lafcadio Hearn.
I have not seen Krehbiel at all,—was out of town when I returned, and seems to have found no time afterwards.