Letter from Anna Mary Howitt, London, to Anne Leigh Smith, 1854 November : autograph manuscript signed.

Remarking that it would be beautiful to go to Rome in the winter, and that she hopes they can get together soon; sharing that there are several reasons against her going to Rome at this time, though the possibility has "sent the blood careening through my veins famously today"; expressing gratitude for her true friendship and generosity; sharing that they are expecting her father to return soon, and that her family has not been together for four and a half years; noting also that she feels dread about possible excitement due to years of over-strung nerves, and she would feel wild with delight in Italy; stating that she should wait to go when she is somewhat stronger; explaining that she also would not be able to finish her pictures; apologizing because she is not able to say "yes" this winter; sharing that she feels sick reading about the "great victory" (possibly referring to the battle of Inkerman, first reported in the Times on November 23).