Autograph letter signed with initials : Basel, Berne and Lucerne, to [Jane Brookfield], "Thursday. 17" [1851 July 17-21].

Describing their journey in detail to Basel in detail. Mentioning a brief stop in Baden Baden and a delightful first class train ride to Basel; remarking that he turns 40 the following day, and hoping to find a letter from her at Berne. Describing the peacefulness of his rooms, remarking "I wonder whether a residence in this quiet would ennoble one's thought permanently? -- and get them away from mean quarrels intrigues, pleasures? make me write good books -- turn poet perhaps or painter -- and get out of that baseness of London." Continuing the letter from Berne on Saturday: regretting that he did not find a letter from her at Heidelberg or Berne, and hoping for better luck at Milan or Venice. Describing their "byooootiful" ride from Basel; remarking on the difference in travelling alone and "as paterfamilias, with a daughter in each hand;" noting that they have seen many pretty children but none so pretty as Baby Brookfield. Continuing the letter from Lucerne on Monday: Noting that they loved Berne and are not very charmed by Lucerne; hoping to gravel on to Milan "pretty quick," intending to sail down the Major Lake tomorrow and hoping for a letter from her there. Sketching the view from his window; asking after her health; lovingly describing his daughters and saying that he is "as happy with them as possible."