BR TO ALYS RUSSELL, [23 APR. 1908]
BRACERS 21102. ALS. McMaster
Proofread by K. Blackwell

Palermo
Thursday

Dearest Alys

Yesterday we arrived by lunch-time at Partinico, where we had originally meant to spend the night; the others decided to walk on to Monreale, but my feet were sore and I came here by train. I shall join them again today, and we sleep at Piana dei Greci, returning here tomorrow by a roundabout route (Garibaldi’s, owing to intervening Bourbon troops). I reach Charing X at 3.35 on April 30, from Folkestone. I reach Naples on the morning of the 27th, go to Pompeii, see B-B and Mariechen. At this precise moment a postcard comes from Mariechen saying they won’t reach Naples till the 29th, so I shan’t see them. I shall probably stop somewhere else on the way, but have not yet decided where. I am rather glad — the thought of smart Americans and dress-clothes was oppressive.

I am glad to hear thee is having successful meetings, and amused that thee will at last enter Bayworth chapel. — Wright has gone to Girgenti, and Waterfield is walking with the party. — Thee did quite right to refuse the Men’s League’s request for me to speak. — On May 13 I go to an evening party at the Royal Society, where I suppose I shall be formally admitted.

I have had thy letters down to Saturday’s; no doubt Sunday’s will come presently, but probably not till I have started to join the others. It was a comfort last night to have decent food and bed, and no fear of bugs. Charles boasted that he didn’t much mind bugs, but nemesis descended on him, for two nights running he alone was attacked.

I am much interested in all thee says about Mildred and Scott. I hardly see how I can go to them — it would be so much time and money lost.

By getting another search made I have just secured another letter from thee, enclosing Mary Spring Rice’s letter. I am very sorry indeed that Lady Monteagle is so ill. — Markuman’s appointment is interesting, but I have received no paper except the Nation. However the hotel takes in the D.T., so we have been kept informed. I like the new Government. I offered to bet against Winston’s re-election but none of our party would take me up. We haven’t yet heard the result.

I am very fit — it was only blisters that made me give out yesterday. Segesta was as beautiful as anything I have ever seen, and luckily there was no Loeser to spoil it. — What good news about the Kennington mothers!

I shall perhaps not write for tomorrow’s boat.

Thine aff.
Bertie