Oct. 5.—In the evening Mr. Redford and Mr. Spencer came, and we had much music.
Letter to Miss Sara Hennell, 6th Oct. 1861.
We are enjoying a great pleasure, a new grand piano, and last evening we had a Beethoven night. We are looking out for a violinist: we have our violoncello, who is full of sensibility, but with no negative in him—i.e., no obstinate sense of time—a man who is all assent and perpetual rallentando. We can enjoy the pleasure the more because Mr. Lewes's health is promising.
Diary, 1861.
Oct. 7.—Began the first chapter of my novel ("Romola").
Oct. 9.—Read Nerli.
Oct. 11.—Nardi's "History of Florence." In the afternoon walked with Barbara, and talked with her from lunch till dinner-time.
Oct. 12.—In the evening we had our usual Saturday mixture of visitors, talk, and music; an agreeable addition being Dr. M'Donnell of Dublin.
Oct. 14.—Went with Barbara to her school to hear the children sing.
Oct. 18.—Walked with G. and Mr. Spencer to Hampstead, and continued walking for more than five hours. In the evening we had music. Mrs. Bodichon and Miss Parkes were our additional visitors.