We breakfasted at 8. Afterwards looked at many rooms. No joint affair would do. Some in P. de Spagna the best for S.W.C. Those on the Pincian have many objections & a bad landlord, as well as 300  sc. rent. Some, I saw in a new house in the Condotti ― for 360. These, barring a want of one watercloset, are very good. ― Later, I went to Palazzo Gaetani ― & saw Duke Sermoneta & Margaret K.! ― They were very kind & pleasant, & I am to dine there tomorrow. ― Donna Onorata & Donna Julia grown up. ― Went therefrom to look at other rooms, & after 2 to Isabella K. whom I found in really better health than I had hoped for. Strange years! ― V. Caldwells ― & Mr. Woodward there. Also I saw James Uwins ― & Williams again. ― At 4 S.W.C. took the P. di Spagna rooms, & I am to be with him  till I settle. ― We then walked round the Borghese Gardens ― & so till home. The Gardens are a wretchedness now ― pines gone & all changed. At 6.30 I dined at the James Marshalls ― Aubrey de Vere & Madame Gerber there. Cold all ― & dreamy & curious. A. de V. is not wise I think. ― Mrs. M. very enthusiastic & “Cameronish.” ― Mr. M. vague. ― I sang a good deal. But on the whole, not being very well was a little bored.

X1

Ah! Lamentation.

[Transcribed by Marco Graziosi from Houghton Library, Harvard University, MS Eng. 797.3.]