--------

The Cromwell business, though I punch daily at it with all manner
of levers, remains immovable as Ailsa Crag. Heaven alone knows
what I shall do with it. I see and say to myself, It is
heroical; Troy Town was probably not a more heroic business;
and this belongs to thee, to thy own people,--must it be dead
forever?--Perhaps yes,--and kill me too into the bargain. Really
I think it very shocking that we run to Greece, to Italy, to &c.,
&c., and leave all at home lying buried as a nonentity. Were I
absolute Sovereign and Chief Pontiff here, there should be a
study of the Old _English_ ages first of all. I will pit Odin
against any Jupiter of them; find Sea-kings that would have
given Jason a Roland for his Oliver! We are, as you sometimes
say, a book-ridden people,--a phantom-ridden people.--All this
small household is well; salutes you and yours with love old and
new. Accept this hasty messenger; accept my friendliest
farewell, dear Emerson.

Yours ever,
T. Carlyle




LXXXVIII. Emerson to Carlyle

Concord, 31 December, 1843

My Dear Friend,--I have had two good letters from you, and it is