Letter from Dante Rossetti, London, to Barbara Leigh Smith Bodichon, 1870 March [validate Sophie] : autograph manuscript signed.

Postscript at head of first page stating that Barbara must like Miss Boyd. Body of letter thanking her for her note; sharing that he might avail himself of the full extent of her kind permission in regards to his stay; feeling that he has benefited greatly from the glorious weather; noting that his pains have improved in his eyes and head; sharing that he has been able to steadily work with attention; taking great delight after his break in regular work; noting that he is working downstairs, as the light is stronger than he is used to and does not suit him; describing how he can work very well with the blind down in the sitting room, and would like to know what it is made of so he can get similar ones for his studio at Chelsea; sharing that he finished the drawing of Sophie Burgess and thinks that he made a good thing of it; sharing that he has also begun a drawing of Stillman, as well as a picture of Mrs. Morris; describing how the leisure and pleasure of work in the country is something new to him; sharing how the lack of interruptions and invitations are an enjoyment; sharing that he feels tempted to set up his tent in the country altogether; noting that he made engravings about a nearby house; passing along Mrs. Morris' kind remembrances; sharing that her health has also benefited to a surprising extent; hoping that she will get his book in about a week's time since he told his publisher to send her one. Postscript at top of last page clarifying what spot he means.