As Mr. Murray prophesied, I was very "agreeably disappointed" in Rome. I went to only a few of the most celebrated sanctuaries, but I liked them very much. The sight of the Holy Father had a very great effect on me, and it is impossible for me to speak too warmly of his kindness. Every one was most civil, which is a rarity for me to meet with. The Holy Father has given all the permissions which we wanted, and we have had Mass three times on board, making up a very nice altar in Mr. Capel's cabin.
The odd thing is that we have not had a row yet, but are all quite on good terms, a state of things which I suppose one need not hope to continue.
Accept my best wishes and continued thanks for kindnesses received, and believe me,
Sincerely and gratefully, yours ever,
BUTE.
1868, Letter from Jerusalem
The journey to Palestine ("the continuation of my pilgrimage of thanksgiving," as Bute called it in a subsequent letter) was safely accomplished, and Mgr. Capel wrote to Mrs. Scott Murray on Palm Sunday from Jerusalem:
Thank God, all is going well. We have had some physical discomforts, indisposition, etc., but our pilgrimage viewed spiritually is singularly blessed. I hope to lay in a store of grace for my future work. Certainly nothing could be more touching than our visits to the Holy Places. Bute gives great edification. He communicates very frequently, and is growing rapidly in Catholic devotion. Now that I live with him I see, of course, some weaknesses—among others a tendency to idleness; but he has much charm of character and personality. You will probably know through the papers that he has accepted the Grand Cross of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre.
Our journey will be dreadfully prolonged. I am afraid we shall not reach England until June: our plans change at every moment. I send for you and Mr. Murray the enclosed pictures, which have touched the Holy Places. My affectionate regards to you all, including the officer.[[15]]
Another letter from Mgr. Capel to Danesfield is dated, "In the Ladybird, about the Mediterranean, May 14, 1869." It indicates that Bute had been, as usual, not particularly fortunate in securing congenial companionship for his journey.